A root canal, also called endodontic therapy, is one of the most common dental procedures. It is performed to save damaged tooth from extraction. It also helps patients avoid more expensive or complex dental work that may be caused by a lost tooth.
Inside the tooth is a bundle of soft tissues called the dental pulp. When the pulp becomes infected, inflammation and pain occur. Left untreated, infection can spread to nearby teeth, cause abscess and destroy bone. The condition is often caused by cavities, cracks and trauma.
Symptoms include:
- Severe pain which may be constant or intermittent
- Swollen and red gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Sensitivity to pressure
- Tooth discoloration
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Some patients, however, show no symptoms. To detect dental pulp infection, a routine X-ray is taken.
A lot of people have preconceived notions that root canals are painful and the worst experience, they talk to their friends after a root canal is prescribed. Often times the friend will say, don’t do it, it’s the worst thing ever. Nowadays, I’m not sure why that persists, because that doesn’t happen anymore, at least not in this office. It’s done under local anesthetic, the tooth is completely numb, and we have a lot of things that we do for patients to make them feel comfortable.
Root Canal Procedure
Dentist will first perform diagnostic procedures to determine the extent of the decay and if a root canal may be necessary. During the treatment, your dentist removes the pulp and decayed portions of the tooth. The space is sanitized and sealed off. Finally a dental crown is used to cap over the tooth.
Trafalgar Dental Care uses the latest techniques, materials and tools for faster, more comfortable procedures and superior treatment results. Contact our Trafalgar dental office today at +61 3 5633 1185 or send us a message online to learn more about root canal therapy.