Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
It is possible that you have damaged or infected pulp in the root of your tooth. You may have even developed an abscess.
This damage has possibly caused untreatable dental decay.
Please note: Root canals are generally not offered if the tooth is loose or if only a small amount of the tooth remains as treatment is less likely to be successful in these cases.
Understanding the Anatomy of Your Tooth
Inside the tooth, under the white enamel and a hard layer called the dentin, is a soft tissue called the pulp.
The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissues and helps with the growing of your tooth during development.
In a fully developed tooth, the tooth can survive without the pulp as the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues that surround it.
What to Expect From a Root Canal
A root canal procedure is likely to be carried out over several visits.
During a root canal, the inflamed and infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled with a rubber-like substance called gutta-percha.
Afterwards, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection and after restoration, the tooth will continue to function like any other.
Are There Any Alternatives To Having a Root Canal?
The only other real alternative to having a root canal is removal of the tooth. Removal of the tooth can leave a gap in your jaw that may need replacing by an artificial tooth.
If you leave the tooth untreated, the infection may spread into the jaw. Pus can build up and cause even more pain, not to mention that you also have the possibility of a cyst developing and requiring further treatment.
Do Root Canals Carry Any Other Risks?
Like any medical procedure, a root canal can pose some risk and on rare occasions there may be complications. These complications may result in a tooth needing additional treatment or even removal.
Please note: in most cases root canals are very successful. Speak with your Dentist if you are having any concerns.
Root Canal treatment is a micro-surgery on your tooth.
Your dentist will explain this to you before the treatment start, but you may need to be aware that a Specialist Endodontist may be called upon to complete any root canal treatment if it proves complex.
Regular reviews of the tooth and x-ray images at regular intervals will be necessary after completion of the treatment, to ensure there is no sign of ongoing infection in or around the tooth.
The information contained in this article is intended to give you general information and it is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
However, if you do want to receive professional advice regarding root canals, it is advised that you contact the Wisdom Teeth Professionals in Sydney by giving Dr. Paulo Pinho a call on 1300 217 858.