The phrase Root Canal Treatment seems to instil dread amongst a lot of our clients, and we’re never quite sure why. Well, like a lot of things in life, there isn’t much of a story in a straightforward procedure, but if it’s turned into something more grisly, then it’s a story worth telling.
Root canal treatment is something we will carry out on a tooth that has been damaged either through significant decay, injury or for other reasons where the nerve inside the tooth has died off.
The aim of root canal treatment is to remove the nerve of the tooth, clean the channels that run through the roots of the tooth, and to fill up the voids inside the tooth to reduce the potential for bacteria to build up and cause infections and abscesses.
For the most part, root canal treatment is painless, and almost always carried out under local anaesthetic, so really there’s nothing to worry about. It’s one of the more complex and time-consuming procedures we carry out so be ready for a longer appointment. After root canal treatment it’s not uncommon for the tooth to feel a little tender, but this will normally settle within a few days.
In the majority of cases, a root filled tooth is likely to need a crown (or “onlay”) but your dentist will advise you on this.
As ever, if there’s anything you are unsure about then speak to your dentist or any of our team and they’ll be happy to help you.
Mike
