Root canal treatment, also known as root canal therapy or endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth.

Inside every tooth is a soft area called the dental pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Deep decay, cracks, trauma or other damage can allow bacteria to reach the pulp. When this happens, the pulp can become inflamed or infected and may cause significant pain.

During root canal treatment, the affected pulp is carefully removed. The inside of the tooth is then cleaned and disinfected before the root canals are filled and sealed.

The aim is to remove the source of infection while preserving as much of your natural tooth as possible.

Signs You May Need Root Canal Treatment

Not every toothache requires a root canal, which is why a dental examination is important. However, certain symptoms can indicate that the pulp inside a tooth may be damaged or infected.

You may need an assessment for root canal treatment if you experience:

• Persistent or severe toothache
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
• Swelling around the tooth or gum
• Tenderness around the affected tooth
• A recurring gum boil or pimple near the tooth
• A darkened or discoloured tooth
• Deep tooth decay
• A cracked or damaged tooth
• Dental pain following an injury or trauma
• Pain that temporarily improves but then returns

Sometimes an infected tooth may have little or no pain. This is another reason regular dental examinations are important.

If you are experiencing unexplained dental pain, our Brunswick dentists can assess the tooth and determine whether root canal treatment or another form of dental care is appropriate.

 

If you have never visited our offices before, we ask that you complete some basic paperwork before your appointment to decrease wait-times.

The primary aim of root canal treatment is to treat the problem inside the tooth while preserving the natural tooth where possible.

Potential benefits include:

• Helping remove infected or inflamed pulp
• Addressing the source of dental pain or infection
• Preserving your natural tooth
• Maintaining your ability to chew
• Avoiding extraction when the tooth can be successfully treated
• Providing a foundation for a suitable restoration
• Supporting the long-term function of the treated tooth

Preserving a natural tooth can often be preferable to removing it when the tooth is suitable for root canal treatment.

Root Canal Treatment vs Tooth Extraction

 

When a tooth has extensive infection or damage, patients may sometimes need to consider whether to have root canal treatment or an extraction.

Root Canal Treatment

 

Root canal treatment aims to preserve the natural tooth. The infected or damaged pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned and sealed, and the tooth is subsequently restored as required.

Tooth Extraction

 

An extraction removes the affected tooth. If the tooth is removed, you may later need to consider options for replacing it, such as a dental implant, bridge or denture, depending on your circumstances.

The right option depends on the condition of your tooth, the extent of the damage and your overall dental needs.

Your dentist will explain the available options so you can make an informed decision.

Book Root Canal Treatment in Brunswick

 

If you have tooth pain, sensitivity or concerns about an infected or damaged tooth, don’t put off getting it checked.

Hope Street Family Dental provides personalised dental care in Brunswick for patients who need assessment and treatment for a range of dental problems, including root canal treatment.