Understanding Dental Root Canal Treatment

What is a Dental Root Canal?

A dental root canal is a common procedure used to treat an infection or damage within the pulp of a tooth.

The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth, consisting of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, a crack, or trauma, it can lead to severe pain and complications.

A root canal aims to save the tooth by removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the interior, and then sealing it to prevent further issues.

Why is a Root Canal Needed?

Root canal treatment becomes necessary when the pulp inside the tooth becomes severely damaged or infected.

This can occur due to various reasons:

Deep Tooth Decay: Bacteria can penetrate the tooth’s surface and reach the pulp, leading to infection.
Repeated Dental Procedures: Multiple procedures on the same tooth can weaken the pulp.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth: Trauma can expose the pulp to bacteria.
Injury: A significant blow to the tooth can damage the pulp even if there are no visible cracks.

Ignoring the need for a root canal can lead to worsening symptoms, such as persistent pain, swelling, and even tooth loss.

By addressing the issue early, a root canal can help preserve your natural tooth and avoid more extensive dental procedures in the future.

The Root Canal Treatment Process

Diagnosis and Preparation
Your dentist or endodontist will begin with a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the extent of the damage and confirm the need for a root canal. They will discuss the procedure with you, including the benefits and potential risks.
Anaesthetic
To ensure you are comfortable and pain-free, a local anaesthetic is administered to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area.
Tooth Isolation
A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva during the procedure.
Access Opening
The dentist drills a small hole in the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
Cleaning and Shaping
The dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp tissue and cleans the root canals. Special instruments are used to shape the canals, making them easier to fill and seal.
Disinfection
The root canals are disinfected with an antimicrobial solution to eliminate any remaining bacteria.
Filling
After cleaning, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material. This seals the canals and prevents future infections.
Sealing and Restoration
The access opening is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling. In many cases, a crown is placed on the tooth to provide additional protection and restore its function and appearance.

Post-Treatment Care

After a root canal, you may experience some discomfort or mild pain, which is normal and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. It’s essential to follow your dentist’s instructions for care and attend any follow-up appointments to ensure the tooth heals properly.

Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, is crucial for the longevity of the treated tooth.

How much does a root canal filling cost?

Private – From £365.00
Denplan Essentials – From £292.20
Denplan Care – Covered
Root Canal requiring in-house referral to EndoMon – £895 (not covered with Denplan)

Conclusion

A root canal is a highly effective procedure for saving a tooth that would otherwise be lost due to severe infection or damage. By understanding the need for a root canal and the steps involved, you can make informed decisions about your dental health and receive the care you need to maintain a healthy, functional smile.

If you have any questions or concerns about root canal treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.

Our team is here to provide you with personalised care and support every step of the way.