Endodontics (root canal treatment)
What is root canal treatment?
Inside the tooth, under the white enamel and a hard inner layer
called the dentine, is a soft tissue called the pulp. The pulp
contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. The pulp
extends from the crown of the tooth to the tip of the roots where
it connects to the tissues surrounding the root. The pulp is
important during a tooth's growth and development. However, once a
tooth is fully mature it can survive without the pulp.
Why is root canal treatment necessary?
Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed
or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a number of
causes including deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or a crack
or chip in the tooth. In addition, a blow to the tooth can cause
damage to the pulp even if the tooth appears intact. If pulp
inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or
lead to an abscess.
Signs of pulp damage include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat
or cold, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling or tenderness in
the nearby gums. Occasionally, there are no symptoms.
How does root canal treatment save the tooth?
The endodontist will remove the inflamed or infected pulp,
carefully clean and shape the inside of the tooth, and then will
fill and seal the space. Afterwards, you will need to return to
your own dentist, who will place a crown or other restoration on
the tooth to protect and restore it to full function. After
restoration the tooth will continue to function like any other
tooth.
Is root canal treatment painful?
Many root canal treatments are performed to relieve the pain of
toothaches caused by pulp inflammation or infection. With modern
techniques and anaesthetics, most patients report that the
procedure is painless and comfortable.
For the first few days after treatment your tooth may feel
sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the
procedure. This discomfort can usually be relieved with over the
counter medication.
How much will the procedure cost?
Every root canal treatment is specific to a patient and the
complexity of a root canal treatment will vary considerably
depending upon a number of factors. These will also influence the
number and length of visits that will be required. Some treatments
will only require one visit and some will require several.
Following referral by your dentist, the endodontist will be able to
give you an indication of the number and length of visits and of
the approximate cost prior to you attending for treatment.
Will the tooth need any additional treatment?
You should be careful when biting or chewing on your tooth until
you have had it restored by your dentist. The unrestored tooth is
susceptible to fracture, so you should see your own dentist for a
full restoration as soon as possible.
Most endodontically treated teeth last as long as other natural
teeth. In a few cases, a tooth that has undergone endodontic
treatment fails to heal or the pain continues.