Root Canal Treatment

Root Canal Treatment Mount Waverley

It’s probably fair to say that the words ‘root’ and ‘canal’ strike fear into the hearts of most of us, but knowing exactly what to expect and what is involved with this treatment can really help alleviate your worries.

At Dentist@330 our dentists in Mt Waverley have a great deal of experience in performing root canal treatments, residents of Melbourne really have nothing to fear and we are always happy to chat about the procedure beforehand.

What is root canal

This is the term given to the area inside a tooth where there is pulp, or a nerve – each of your teeth contains between one and four root canals. If the pulp or nerve within is infected or damaged in any way it will need to be removed and the canal cleaned and sealed to prevent further infection. Despite the nerve being removed your tooth will not be adversely affected in anyway. This procedure is known as root canal treatment.

How Does Tooth Pulp Become Damaged or Infected?

There are a few things that lead to infected tooth pulp; if you have a seriously decayed tooth, a large cavity or a chipped or broken tooth your nerve may be exposed which in turn causes pain. You may also need root canal treatmentif you have inflamed gums due to oral decay, a previously damaged tooth that has decided to start causing problems, or if your teeth are beginning to die due to the aging process.

Root Canal Treatment: The Procedure

If your tooth pulp is infected your dentist will probably give you a course of antibiotics to take for a few days prior to having the procedure so that the infection is already being fought. At your appointment your tooth will be X-rayed and numbed in preparation. You’ll be given a shield to wear during the treatment; this isolates the tooth, keeps it saliva free and protects the rest of your mouth from the disinfectants used to clean the canal.

Your dentist will drill a small hole in your tooth so that the root canal is accessible. He or she will remove the nerve using a hand held file or a rotary instrument. Once the infected nerve has been eliminated the canal will be cleaned, dried and filled with a rubber material to seal it.

To help prevent further issues your dentist will then remove any parts of your tooth that are decayed, sealing the cavities with a temporary filling. Shortly after this you will need to return to your dentist so they can either replace the temporary filling with a permanent one or fit a crown over the broken tooth. Crowns are recommended because teeth that have had their nerve removed can become brittle and prone to breaking. A crown will help protect your smile for longer.

Hear What Our Patients Are Saying!

At Dentists@330, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional dental care and creating a welcoming environment for all our patients. But don’t just take our word for it – hear what our patients are saying!

Our patients have shared their experiences and feedback through Google reviews, highlighting our commitment to quality care, professionalism, and personalised service. We are grateful for their kind words and are proud to have made a positive impact on their dental health and well-being.

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FAQs

What exactly is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from inside the tooth. The space inside the tooth, known as the root canal, is then cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further infection. This procedure allows the tooth to be saved rather than extracted.

How does tooth pulp become damaged or infected?

Tooth pulp can become damaged or infected due to deep decay, a large cavity, a cracked or broken tooth, or trauma to the tooth. In some cases, repeated dental procedures on a tooth or a severe infection can also lead to pulp damage. Once the pulp is infected, it can cause significant pain and may lead to an abscess if not treated.

What are the symptoms that indicate I might need a root canal?

Common symptoms indicating the need for a root canal include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, discoloration of the tooth, swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums, and a persistent or recurring pimple on the gums. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your dentist for an evaluation.

What can I expect during a root canal procedure?

During a root canal procedure, your dentist will first numb the area to ensure you are comfortable. They will then take an X-ray to assess the extent of the infection. A rubber dam will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva. The dentist will drill a small hole in the tooth to access the root canal, remove the infected pulp, and clean and disinfect the area. The canal will then be filled with a rubber-like material and sealed. Finally, a temporary or permanent filling or crown will be placed to restore the tooth.

Is root canal treatment painful?

With modern dental techniques and anaesthesia, root canal treatment is typically no more painful than having a routine filling. Most patients report that the procedure itself is comfortable. Any pain experienced before the procedure, due to infection or inflammation, is usually relieved once the root canal is completed.

How can I care for my tooth after a root canal treatment?

After a root canal treatment, it is important to follow your dentist’s instructions for care. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored with a permanent filling or crown. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing. If you experience any pain, swelling, or other unusual symptoms, contact your dentist immediately.

Root Canal Treatment