Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is often known as endodontics. It is performed by dentists and specialists when the pulp (the inner core of the tooth) is damaged through progressive tooth decay or trauma. The aim of the treatment is to save the tooth by carefully cleaning out the root and prevent the tooth from infecting and causing discomfort, swelling or an abscess further down the line.

How is the Root Canal Treatment performed?

Root canal treatment is usually carried out in a single visit. Treatment time is usually around one hour and the procedure is generally carried out with local anaesthetic (the same anaesthetic used when you have a filling).

The dentist or specialist dentist will start by going through the procedure with you before you start treatment. Once the tooth is fully numb, initially, an access cavity is made to access the pulp and roots. These are then cleaned methodically with a combination of chemicals and mechanical instruments.

Once the tooth is fully clean, an x-ray is often taken to check for quality control. Subsequently, the root is then filled with a filling material to prevent the root canal from getting reinfected with more bacteria or disease.

After the treatment is complete, often a crown is required to reduce the tooth from fracturing. Your dentist will discuss the necessity of this with you. You can safely drive and work that day if you wish.

Is Root Canal Treatment painful?

There are many myths about root canal treatment. However, root canal treatment is very safe and nowadays, the anaesthetics are very good and work very well. The tooth is always fully numbed and then checked for numbness prior to treatment.

After treatment completion, you can consider taking an over the counter painkiller such as Paracetomol or Ibuprofen as the tooth may be slightly sensitive (discuss this with your dentist/pharmacist).