Sawtry Dental Practice
Comfortable & Long-Lasting
Root canal treatment is also known as endodontics and enables many teeth to be saved rather than extracted. We strongly believe in preserving natural teeth wherever possible as not only is this better for you but it is usually more cost effective in the long term.
When done well, and with the aid of some of the latest technology, root canal treatment has high success rates and more predictable results than some older treatment methods. It is a procedure that can be performed without any discomfort and indeed some of our patients have been occasionally known to have a little snooze during treatment!
Root Canal Treatment
Root Canal
When severe toothache strikes, it can impact all aspects of your life. Work and social plans take a backseat to discomfort, and chewing is probably the last thing you want to do. But this pain may indicate something serious happening beneath your tooth’s surface.
Root canal treatment, or endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure aimed at saving a severely damaged or infected tooth. It involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from the tooth’s interior, known as the root canal system, and thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting it. Afterwards, the canal is filled and sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection.
Root canal treatment alleviates pain, preserves the tooth’s structure, and prevents the spread of infection to surrounding tissues. Following the procedure, a crown or filling is typically placed to restore the tooth’s function and appearance, allowing it to function normally for years to come.
Root Canal Filling Near Me
Signs You May Need A Root Canal
Persistent Tooth Pain
If you have ongoing or intense tooth pain that doesn’t go away, especially when chewing or applying pressure, it could be a sign of infection deep inside the tooth.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
A tooth that reacts strongly or painfully to hot drinks or cold foods—and lingers even after the source is removed—may need root canal therapy.
Swollen or Tender Gums
Swelling, tenderness, or a small pimple-like bump (abscess) on the gums near a painful tooth may indicate infection at the root.
Discolouration of the Tooth
A tooth that becomes darker or greyish may have nerve damage or internal decay, often requiring a root canal to treat.
A Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Even a minor crack can allow bacteria to enter the pulp, leading to infection and the possible need for root canal treatment.
Root Canal Treatment
The Root Canal Process
The most common procedure performed by an endodontist is root canal treatment. This is a dental procedure used to treat an infected or damaged dental pulp. During a root canal treatment, the endodontist removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and then seals them to prevent further infection.
Root canal treatment is the best way to save your tooth and prevent further oral and general health complications. The earlier we can do this, the better the chances of preserving your tooth.
To ensure the process is pain and discomfort free, we’ll use a local anaesthetic to numb the treatment site. Next, we’ll enter your tooth and extract the infected pulp and bacteria.
After extracting the infected pulp, we’ll use a gutta-percha to seal the area. Gutta-percha is a biologically inert and naturally occurring rubber-like substance from Malaysian trees.
Once sealed, we’ll close the tooth with a filling. We may also later cap the tooth with a crown.
Root Canal Treatment
Healing Process After Your Root Canal Treatment
The healing timeline after a root canal procedure typically follows a structured progression marked by distinct stages. After your root canal appointment, your body begins healing to recover from the previously damaged or infected tooth.
Here is an overview of the healing timeline following a root canal:
- Initial Recovery (1-2 days): Mild discomfort or sensitivity may be experienced immediately after the procedure.
- Tissue Healing (1 week): The surrounding tissues heal, reducing inflammation.
- Complete Healing (several weeks): The tooth and surrounding area continue to recover, with any lingering discomfort gradually dissipating.
- Follow-up Appointment (2-4 weeks): Dentists typically schedule a follow-up visit to ensure proper healing and assess the success of the root canal.
See What Our Patients Say
We pride ourselves on our patient care and love seeing the amazing smiles we’re able to help create.
