Save a tooth from possible extraction with root canal therapy
In many cases, root canal is the only option to save an infected tooth from needing extraction.
What is a root canal? Why do I need root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that replaces a tooth’s damaged or infected pulp with a filling. Damage to the pulp may be caused by untreated dental decay, decay beneath a filling or tooth damage due to trauma, tooth grinding (bruxism) or gum disease. The procedure is also known as endodontic treatment and should be no more unpleasant than having a filling.
Does root canal hurt?
Root canal treatment conducted by our professional Gold Coast dentists should not be painful as a local anaesthetic will be used. Most people report it being no more painful than a filling.
How long does root canal take?
Root canal can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the case. Patients are often surprised how quickly the procedure is over; this is a routine procedure for the team at Gold Coast Dental Studio and goes quite quickly.
Do root canals work?
Root canal treatment should have a success rate between 85% and 97% when performed correctly.
What happens in a root canal?
The root canal procedure is generally as follows:
- First, your tooth is numbed with the same sedation technique you would receive before a dental filling. This ensures the procedure is painless, though you may feel pressure at times.
- Decay and inflamed and infected pulp is then removed along with any remaining nerve tissue in the root of the tooth.
- The tooth is sterilised and cleaned out to prepare for the sealant.
- To block the canal and prevent oral fluids from accessing and re-infecting the inner parts of the tooth, it is filled and sealed with gutta-percha, a rubbery material.
- Since the tooth remains weakened, it is reinforced by a dental crown. The crown increases the durability and function of the repaired tooth.
- Your dentist will likely request a 6-month follow-up to ensure the correct healing of the bone surrounding the tooth.
Do I need a crown after root canal treatment?
As a result of root canal therapy removing the infected pulp from the tooth, this results in weakening the structure the tooth. A dental crown is often recommended to help support and strengthen the treated tooth. Dental crowns are designed to protect and restore the functionality of your teeth, which is particularly important for your back teeth that are used for hard chewing. Dental Crowns are also used to improve the aesthetic appearance of your teeth. After root canal therapy, without a dental crown, your tooth will be more susceptible to decay, infection, or breaking.
At Gold Coast Dental Studio, our dental crowns and bridges are designed and made directly in Australia. This helps to ensure faster turnaround while providing better end results for the patient.
Do dentists do root canal therapy?
Root canals can be performed by your dentist; however, a specialist endodontist may be recommended for treatment of severe and extreme cases. Endodontists focus on disorders of the dental pulp and routinely perform root canals.
Gold Coast Dental Studio’s team of skilled professions will make sure your root canal goes as smoothly as possible. Call us (07) 5578 2218 to schedule an appointment.