Root canal treatment is PAIN FREE, there is nothing to be afraid of! Root canal therapy is needed if decay has spread to the tooth nerve (pulp chamber), or if a crack has developed down into the root of the tooth. Root canal therapy is done over a number of visits, depending on the reason for having the treatment.
How does the process work?
- The tooth is first cleaned and medicated to alleviate symptoms.
- Once Dr Kimberly Ivett is satisfied the tooth has settled, she will then commence cleaning, reshaping the canals, and place new medicine in the tooth.
- At the final root canal therapy appointment, Dr Kimberly Ivett will insert a new synthetic lining into the root canal to stabilise the tooth.
- For best long-term prognosis of the tooth, a porcelain crown is recommended
Root canal treatment is a very delicate process and must be completed to ensure the tooth doesn’t become inflamed (re-inflamed) or infected (reinfected). Nothing is ever as good as the original teeth you were born with.
If the tooth can be saved by undergoing root canal therapy, it’s a worthy investment in yourself.
When is root canal treatment necessary?
Root canal treatment is recommended in cases of:
- infection caused by deep decay or a large filling
- advanced gum disease
- trauma, such as a blow to a tooth or constant striking of a tooth by teeth on the opposite jaw
- a fracture in the tooth, allowing bacteria to enter
- teeth grinding
The symptoms of damaged, diseased, or inflamed dental pulp requiring root canal treatment include:
- pain and pressure at the site of the tooth
- hot and cold sensitivity
- mobility of the tooth
- swelling and tenderness in the gums surrounding the tooth
- discolouration or darkening of the tooth
- the presence of pus at the site of the tooth
- facial swelling
A diagnosis for root canal treatment is made on the basis of symptoms reported by the patient, an examination of the tooth, and x-rays of the tooth.
