Root Canal Treatment

When a tooth is badly infected or decayed, root canal treatment may be offered.

A root canal procedure cleans out infection from the very centre of a tooth in an effort to recover or preserve the tooth’s health and function.

When is root canal treatment necessary?

If the pulp at the centre of a tooth is damaged by infection, then a root canal may be necessary. Where possible, this is an alternative to having an extraction. Symptoms of an infected tooth may include pain, either spontaneously or when consuming food and drink (hot or cold). The tooth itself may also be a little loose. Sometimes, you may also develop swelling of the gums or skin around the affected area.

Infection can set in after a tooth is damaged or when the tooth has begun to decay. Without treatment, the infection will spread and cannot be remedied by a simple course of antibiotics.

What does root canal treatment involve?

Root canal treatment removes the bacterial infection from the centre of the tooth. The nerve and pulp will also be removed, with the tooth thoroughly cleaned and sealed to prevent further infection.

Does root canal treatment hurt?

No. A local anaesthetic is used to make sure the procedure is pain-free. Any discomfort during recovery can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers. Chewing on the affected side of the mouth should be minimised until the tooth is fully repaired.

What happens if I don’t have treatment?

Infection can spread to cause more pain, swelling of the face and become a more significant medical emergency etc.