What is a root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a procedure which targets the source of these problems from deep within the core part of the tooth structure – the root.
The tooth root harbours the nourishing component and sensitive nerve fibres of the tooth known as the ‘pulp’. If the tooth becomes decayed or fractured, it can leave this pulp vulnerable to bacterial infection. Root canal treatment involves the fine drilling, excavation and thorough sterilisation of this area.
Root canal therapy becomes necessary when decay has reached the roots of your tooth. The treatment involves removing the decayed pulp and filling the tooth to help keep its shape and structure.
Once the infected pulp has been removed, the tooth is filled with an inert material such as ‘gutta percha’, which is a type of rubber component. This serves to provide a degree of strength and stability to the root canals once the pulp has been removed.
However, the loss of blood supply and nourishment to the tooth through the pulp inevitably leaves the tooth weakened and more brittle. As a result, a crown or alternative restoration is often positioned over the tooth to aid protection and strengthen the area which has been treated.
Am I a candidate for root canal treatment?
If you have the following signs and symptoms, it may be an indication that an infection is present in the tooth’s nerve:
- Severe pain or discomfort surrounding a tooth
- A large cavity that has entered into the nerve
- An abscess
- Excessive tooth decay or loss of structure due to previous trauma or injury
The only other alternative to root canal treatment is tooth extraction, so it is vital you identify the signs and symptoms and consult your dentist immediately.
Root canal treatment Dental Pearls Brisbane
Root canal treatment is a procedure that has maintained a reputation for being one of dentistry’s most unpleasant and traumatic experiences.
Here at Dental Pearls in the gentle hands of Dr Khatri and Dr Hu you can rest assured you are receiving the most sensitive and delicate approach to your root canal treatment needs.
Your absolute comfort is our priority and each of our patients is dealt with in a way that allows for treatment in a calm, comfortable and relaxed setting, at our experienced practice.
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