treatments
Root canal treatment
What is a root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is the removal of the tooth’s pulp, a small, thread-like tissue in the center of the tooth. Once the damaged, diseased or dead pulp is removed, the remaining space is cleaned, shaped and filled. This procedure seals off the root canal. Years ago, teeth with diseased or injured pulps were removed. Today, root canal treatment saves many teeth that would otherwise be lost.
The most common causes of pulp damage or death are:
- RA cracked tooth
- RA deep cavity
- RAn injury to a tooth, such as a severe knock to the tooth, either recent or in the past.
Once the pulp is infected or dead, if left untreated, pus can build up at the root tip in the jawbone, forming an abscess. An abscess can destroy the bone surrounding the tooth and cause pain.
Root Canal Treatment
Procedure
Call us today to book your appointment.
How is a Root Canal Done?
Root canal treatment consists of several steps that can take place over a number of dental appointments, depending on the situation.
These steps are:
- RFirst, an opening is made through the back of a front tooth or the crown of a molar or pre-molar.
- RAfter the diseased pulp is removed (a pulpectomy), the pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned, enlarged and shaped in preparation for being filled.
- RIf more than one visit is needed, a temporary filling is placed in the crown opening to protect the tooth between dental visits.
- RThe temporary filling is removed and the pulp chamber and root canal permanently filled. A tapered, rubbery material called gutta-percha is inserted into each of the canals and is often sealed into place with cement. Sometimes a metal or plastic rod is placed in the canal for structural support.
- RIn the final step, a crown is usually placed over the tooth to restore its natural shape and appearance. If the tooth is very broken down, a post may be required to build it up prior to placing a crown.
How Long Will the Restored Tooth Last?
Your treated and restored tooth/teeth can last a lifetime with proper care. Because tooth decay can still occur in treated teeth, good oral hygiene and regular dental exams are necessary to prevent further problems.
As there is no longer a pulp keeping the tooth alive, root-treated teeth can become brittle and are more prone to fracture. This is an important consideration when deciding whether to crown or fill a tooth after root canal treatment.
To determine the success or failure of root canal treatment, the most relied-upon method is to compare new X-rays with those taken prior to treatment. This comparison will show whether bone continues to be lost or is being regenerated.
At high street smiles we have a specialist who completes all root canal treatment that may be required.
BOOK YOUR
consultation
Why choose us?
reasons to use us
1
We aim to provide dental care of a consistently good quality
2
We will work with you to provide care that meets your needs and wishes
3
We aim to make your treatment comfortable and convenient
Testimonials
see What our
clients are saying..
"I couldn't praise the staff enough. They were absolutely brilliant. Unfortunately i had to have two teeth extracted and was scared to death. They made me feel at ease and it was done in no time. I had been putting off going to the dentist for a while, now i will be able to go again. Thank you so much for your caring attitude. We need more staff like these and people wouldn't be so afraid. Highly recommend."
"Not too keen on going to the dentist but don't mind going to see Cat, she is very calming & always has a conversation with you putting you at your ease. No problem getting appointments."
"Excellent safety measures in place felt very very safe brilliant dentist and staff thank you"
"Brilliant services on offer from these guys, just had my tooth removed its was fast and painless, I was told it would need drilling by other dentist but got it took out without the drill"
"Excellent communication throughout my appointments. I had composite bonding done and am thrilled with the results. Staff are lovely."
"I couldn't praise the staff enough. They were absolutely brilliant. Unfortunately i had to have two teeth extracted and was scared to death. They made me feel at ease and it was done in no time. I had been putting off going to the dentist for a while, now i will be able to go again. Thank you so much for your caring attitude. We need more staff like these and people wouldn't be so afraid. Highly recommend."
"Not too keen on going to the dentist but don't mind going to see Cat, she is very calming & always has a conversation with you putting you at your ease. No problem getting appointments."
make an appointment
request a
call back today
For more information on our full range of services, please fill out the form from the right and we will get back to you shortly.
