Do you need to have a root canal treatment and have no idea where to go? Unsure as to what the treatment entails? Are you based in the city of Mackay? If these questions apply to you, why not visit your nearest dentist in Mackay for a consultation.
Root canal treatment
A root canal treatment is necessary if you suffer from sensitivity, or experience severe pain whilst chewing and biting. It may also be recommended if your tooth (in particular the dental pulp) has become infected due to bacteria in the mouth which can result in tooth decay, or damage to teeth due to an accident such as a fall. This infection can cause the tissue surrounding the infected tooth to become inflamed. If this is not treated, it can cause pain and in some cases can lead to an abscess. This is when a pus filled pocket forms at the root of the infected tooth. If you develop a toothache it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible to get this treated.
Dental X-rays taken at your appointment will determine whether the dental pulp in your tooth has been damaged. When there is an infection the pulp begins to die, which results in pain when eating and drinking and sometimes a loose tooth.
How is it done?
In order to treat a root canal infection, the bacteria must be removed. There are two ways this can be done; either by removing the whole tooth (which is commonly known as an extraction) or by getting rid of the bacteria from the root canal system. Your tooth may have to be removed if the infection is severe, however it is not usually recommended as dentists aim to keep your teeth for as long as possible.
Under local anaesthetic, a small opening is made at the crown of your tooth and very small instruments are used to remove the bacteria from the pulp and clean the pulp chamber and root canals. Once these areas have been cleaned and shaped, the tooth is sealed and if the root canal treatment is not completed on the same day, a temporary filling is placed on the tooth to prevent any further contamination.
At your following appointment, the interior of your tooth is filled with a material similar to rubber known as ‘gutta percha’. This is placed with a sealant and the temporary filling will be removed.
Most root canal treatments are done in two or three appointments and the procedure is not considered to be painful. If your treatment is being done in more than one appointment it is advised that you avoid biting on hard foods until the treatment is complete.
Aftercare
Following your root canal treatment, your tooth may feel a bit sensitive, but this should subside after a few days. It is also advised that in order to avoid further treatment, precautions must be taken such as avoiding sugary foods and making sure you maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.