What Is Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal is an endodontic treatment which is performed by a dental professional when a tooth has a pulp that is infected or is dead or dying. The pulp of the tooth is located in the centre of the tooth, it is soft and contains the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels.

The pulp of the tooth can become infected or dead due to a cavity, a crack, trauma or continued damage to the tooth. The two most common causes of a dead or infected pulp are cavities and cracks in teeth.

When a root canal is performed it is done so in several stages and so can require several appointments.

It involves drilling a small hole into the tooth to make an opening to access the pulp, the dentist will then remove the infected tissue, clean the canals of the tooth and fill the canals with a permanent material. The opening made in the tooth will then be filled.

In some situations, our dentist at Wide Bay Central Dental may recommend that a post be inserted into the canals of the tooth to help make the structure of the tooth stronger.

In a majority of cases, a tooth should always then have a crown placed on it to protect the tooth from further breakage as it can become weak after this procedure.

Root Canal treatment treatment - Hervey bay

How do you know if you need a root canal?

There are several signs that may indicate the need for a root canal treatment, including:

1 – Persistent pain: If you are experiencing persistent or severe pain in a tooth, especially when chewing or applying pressure, it could be a sign of damage or infection that may require root canal therapy.

2 – Sensitivity to hot or cold: If your tooth is sensitive to hot or cold temperatures and the sensitivity lingers even after the stimulus is removed, it could be a sign of nerve damage that may require root canal treatment.

3 – Swollen or tender gums: If the gums surrounding a tooth are swollen, tender, or have a small bump or pimple-like swelling, it could be a sign of an abscessed tooth that may require root canal therapy.

4 – Discolouration: If a tooth is significantly darker than the surrounding teeth, it could be a sign of internal damage that may require root canal treatment.

5 – Cracked or chipped tooth: If a tooth is cracked or chipped and the damage extends to the pulp, it could be a sign of nerve damage that may require root canal therapy.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see our dentist as soon as possible to determine the cause of your discomfort and discuss your treatment options. Our emergency dentist at Wide Bay Central Dental will be able to perform an examination, take X-rays, and diagnose the issue to determine whether root canal therapy is necessary.

What are alternative options to root canal treatment?

If root canal treatment is not a viable option for a patient, there are several alternative options to consider, including:

1 – Extraction: If the tooth cannot be saved through root canal therapy, extraction may be necessary to prevent further damage or infection.

2 – Medication: Antibiotics or other medication may be used to manage pain and infection in the affected tooth and surrounding area.

3 – Pulp capping: For less severe cases, a dentist may perform a procedure called pulp capping, in which a special material is placed over the damaged pulp to stimulate the growth of new tissue and protect the remaining healthy tissue.

4 – Dental Crown: In some cases, a dentist may perform a procedure called a dental crown, in which gum tissue is reshaped to expose more of the tooth’s surface and allow for the placement of a crown.

5 – Dental implant: If the affected tooth is extracted, a dental implant may be used to replace the missing tooth.

It is important to discuss all treatment options with our dentist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Wide Bay Central Dental - Root Canal Treatment

What is the root canal treatment procedure?

The root canal treatment procedure typically involves the following steps:

1 – Examination and diagnosis: The dentist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage or infection and whether root canal therapy is necessary.

2 – Anesthesia: Our experience dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected area and prevent any pain or discomfort during the procedure.

3 – Access opening: The dentist will make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.

4 – Cleaning and shaping: Using special tools, the dentist will carefully remove the damaged or infected pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals and shape the inside of the tooth to prepare it for filling.

5 – Filling: Once the tooth has been cleaned and shaped, the dentist will fill the space with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha and seal it with a temporary filling.

6 – Follow-up: After the initial treatment, the patient will return to our dentist for a follow-up visit, during which the temporary filling will be removed and the tooth will be permanently filled or capped with a crown or other restoration.

Overall, the root canal procedure typically takes one to two appointments to complete, depending on the extent of the damage or infection and the complexity of the case. It is important to follow all post-treatment instructions provided by the dentist to ensure proper healing and prevent further damage or infection.

Do I need a dental crown after a root canal?

In many cases, a dental crown is recommended after a root canal treatment. This is because a root canal can weaken the affected tooth, making it more susceptible to further damage or fracture. A crown can help to protect the tooth and restore its function and appearance.

However, not all teeth that have undergone root canal treatment require a crown. The need for a crown depends on several factors, including the location of the affected tooth, the extent of the damage or infection, and the patient’s individual needs and preferences.

It is important to discuss all treatment options with your dentist and follow their recommendations to ensure proper healing and long-term success of the root canal treatment.

Remember, early intervention can help prevent more serious problems down the line, so don’t delay – take action now to ensure a healthy smile for years to come.

FAQ's

The cost of a root canal treatment in Hervey Bay can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the damage or infection, the location of the affected tooth, and the dentist’s fees.

It is important to note that some dental insurance plans may cover all or a portion of the cost of root canal treatment. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage.

Here at Wide Bay Central Dental, we offer financing options or payment plans to help make the cost of root canal treatment more manageable. It is important to discuss all payment options with our dentist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Contrary to popular belief, root canal treatment is typically not painful. With modern techniques and anesthesia, most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure.

Before the root canal treatment, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected area and prevent any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Some patients may also receive sedation to help them relax during the procedure.

After the procedure, patients may experience some minor discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. However, this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and should subside within a week.

It is important to follow all post-treatment instructions provided by the dentist to ensure proper healing and prevent further damage or infection. If you have concerns or questions about your root canal treatment, be sure to discuss them with our dentist.

If left untreated, a tooth that requires root canal treatment can lead to several complications and potentially serious consequences. Some of the possible outcomes of an untreated root canal include:

Infection: The bacteria that caused the initial infection can continue to spread and cause further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues.

Abscess: An untreated infection can lead to the formation of a painful abscess, a pus-filled pocket that can form at the root of the affected tooth.

Tooth loss: As the infection spreads and damages the tooth structure, it can eventually lead to the loss of the affected tooth.

Spread of infection: If the infection spreads beyond the affected tooth, it can potentially lead to more serious health complications, such as sepsis or meningitis.

It is important to seek prompt dental care if you suspect that you may require root canal treatment. Early intervention can help to prevent further damage and complications and improve the chances of a successful treatment outcome.

After a root canal treatment, it is generally recommended to wait until the numbness from the anesthesia has worn off before eating or drinking anything. This usually takes a few hours after the procedure.

Additionally, it is important to avoid chewing on the affected tooth or teeth until any temporary filling or crown has been placed, as this can cause damage and compromise the success of the treatment.

Once the filling or crown has been placed, patients can generally resume their normal diet, although it is recommended to avoid hard or sticky foods that can put excessive pressure on the affected tooth. It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, to prevent further damage or infection to the treated tooth.

However, it is important to follow the specific post-treatment instructions provided by your dentist, as these may vary depending on the individual case and the extent of the root canal treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about eating after a root canal treatment, be sure to discuss them with our dentist.

The success and longevity of a root canal treatment can vary depending on several factors, such as the extent of the damage or infection, the quality of the initial treatment, and the patient’s overall oral health and hygiene habits.

However, with proper care and maintenance, a root canal treatment can last for many years, and in some cases, even a lifetime. According to the American Association of Endodontists, the success rate of root canal treatments is generally around 90%.

To help ensure the long-term success of a root canal treatment, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular check-ups with our dentist. Additionally, it may be necessary to have a crown or other restoration placed over the treated tooth to provide additional support and protection.

If you experience any symptoms or changes in the treated tooth or surrounding area, such as pain, swelling, or sensitivity, it is important to seek prompt dental care, as this could indicate a potential complication or need for additional treatment.

In some cases, a root canal treatment may be considered an emergency dental procedure, particularly if the affected tooth is causing severe pain, swelling, or other symptoms.

If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or swelling in the gums or face, it is important to contact your dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation. Depending on the severity of the symptoms and the extent of the damage or infection, your dentist may recommend immediate root canal treatment or other emergency dental procedures.

However, not all cases of root canal treatment are considered emergencies. In some cases, the treatment may be scheduled for a later date, depending on the severity of the condition and the availability of the dentist or endodontist.

If you are unsure whether your condition requires emergency dental treatment, it is always best to contact your dentist or seek care at an emergency dental clinic for an evaluation. They can help to determine the best course of treatment for your specific case.

It is generally better to save a natural tooth whenever possible, rather than extracting it. While tooth extraction may be necessary in certain cases, such as severe decay or trauma, removing a tooth can have several negative consequences for your oral health and overall well-being.

Here are some reasons why it is usually better to save a natural tooth:

1 – Natural teeth are better for chewing and speaking and can help maintain the alignment and balance of the surrounding teeth.

2 – Losing a tooth can lead to bone loss in the jaw and changes in the facial structure over time.

3 – Extracted teeth may require additional dental procedures, such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures, to restore function and appearance.

4 – Saving a natural tooth can be more cost-effective and less invasive than tooth extraction and replacement.

In many cases, a root canal treatment can help save a natural tooth that has been damaged or infected, allowing it to continue functioning for many years to come. However, it is important to consult with our dentist or endodontist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific case.

Need An Appointment!

If you are experiencing tooth pain or other dental issues, don’t wait to seek professional care. Contact our emergency dentist today to schedule an appointment and get the treatment you need to protect your oral health and well-being.

 

CALL NOW : (07) 4194 2525 

We are located in Melory Place, Shop/20/53 Torquay Rd, Pialba QLD 465