Root canal treatment, also known as endodontics, is a dental procedure carried out by our highly skilled dentists, trained to treat an infection or irreversible inflammation of the nerve or pulp of a tooth. There are many reasons why the pulp of a tooth might become infected. The most common causes are a crack in the tooth, severe tooth decay or injury to the tooth. If left untreated decay in the tooth’s root can lead to a fractured tooth, severe periodontal disease or to the extraction of the tooth.
Root canal treatment is designed to save the tooth and prevent the risk of root canal infection. The inflamed or infected pulp is removed from the tooth and the root canal is then cleaned. After the bacteria have been removed, the root canal and pulp are filled in using an artificial substance, before being sealed.
Endodontic Treatment at Umi Clinic
At Umi Clinic in Petersfield located between Surrey and Hampshire, we use best-practice root canal techniques and the latest high-tech equipment including a special loupe with light and high magnification.
The Root Canal Procedure
- Infections in the tooth can cause pain, so it is important to get treatment as soon as you can. Our reassuring dentists know dental treatment can be daunting for some patients, especially root canal, so they always endeavour to make you feel at ease when you visit Umi Clinic.
- Root canal treatment is usually carried out over one or two appointments. The first step is to remove the pulp from the infected tooth which is done using local anaesthetic, so you should not feel discomfort. We will then clean the root canals and get them ready for the filling.
- Once the root canal has been filled with a special material known as gutta percha, we may need to restore your tooth with a larger filling or dental crown to protect it from damage.
ROOT CANAL TREATMENT FAQS
A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage within the pulp of a tooth. During the procedure, the infected or damaged pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected, and then the tooth is sealed to prevent further infection.
Root canal treatment becomes necessary when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, a cracked or fractured tooth, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or trauma to the tooth.
Root canal treatment is typically performed under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. Any discomfort experienced afterward is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medications and should subside within a few days.
The duration of a root canal treatment varies depending on factors such as the location and complexity of the affected tooth. On average, a root canal procedure can take one to two hours to complete.
Following a root canal procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity, which can usually be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medications. Your dentist will provide instructions on caring for the treated tooth and may recommend a follow-up visit to evaluate healing.
In many cases, a dental crown is recommended after a root canal procedure to protect and strengthen the tooth, especially if it’s a molar or premolar. A crown helps restore the tooth’s function and prevents it from fracturing.
In some cases, extraction may be an alternative to root canal treatment. However, saving the natural tooth through root canal therapy is generally preferred as it preserves the natural bite and appearance, and prevents adjacent teeth from shifting.
With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can often last a lifetime. It is essential to practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, to ensure the longevity of the treated tooth.
