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What
is root canal treatment? |
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Root
canal treatment (also called endodontics) is needed when
the blood or nerve supply of the tooth (known as the pulp)
is infected through decay or injury. |
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Why
is root canal treatment needed? |
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If
the pulp becomes infected, the infection may spread through
the root canal system of the tooth. This may eventually
lead to an abscess. If root canal treatment is not
carried out, the infection will spread and the tooth may
need to be taken out. |
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Does
it hurt? |
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No.
A local anaesthetic is used and it should feel no different
to having an ordinary filling done. |
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What
does it involve? |
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The
aim of the treatment is to remove all infection from the
root canal. The root is then cleaned and filled to prevent
any further infection.
Root
canal treatment is a skilled and time-consuming procedure.
Most courses of treatment will involve two or more visits
to your dentist.
At
the first appointment, the infected pulp is removed.
Any abscesses, which may be present, can also be drained
at this time. The root canal is then cleaned and shaped
ready for the filling. A temporary filling is put in
and the tooth is left to settle.
The
tooth is checked at a later visit and when all the infection
has cleared, the tooth is permanently filled.
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What
will my tooth look like after treatment? |
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In
the past, a root filled tooth would often darken after
treatment. However, with modern techniques this does not
usually happen. If there is any discolouration, there
are several treatments available to restore the natural
appearance. |
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Can all teeth be treated endodontically ? |
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Most teeth can be treated. Occasionally, a tooth can’t be saved because the root canals are not accessible, the root is severely fractured, the tooth doesn’t have adequate bone support, or the tooth cannot be restored. However, advances in endodontics are making it possible to save teeth that even a few years ago would have been lost. When endodontic treatment is not effective, endodontic surgery may be able to save the tooth. |
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What
if it happens again? |
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Root
canal treatment is usually very successful. However, if
the infection comes back the treatment can be repeated. |
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Will the tooth need any special care
or additional treatment after endodontic treatment? |
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You should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it restored by your dentist. The unrestored tooth is susceptible to fracture, so you should see your dentist for a full restoration as soon as possible. Otherwise, you need only practice good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular checkups and cleanings. |
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How much does it cost? |
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For our full price list |
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What
if I don't have the treatment? |
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The
alternative is to have the tooth out. Once the pulp is
destroyed, it can't heal and it is not recommended to
leave an infected tooth in the mouth. Although some people
would prefer an extraction, it is usually best to keep
as many natural teeth as possible. |
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Will
the tooth be safe after treatment? |
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Yes.
However, it is better to restore the tooth with a crown
to provide extra support and strength to the tooth. |
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What
about aftercare? |
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Root-treated
teeth should be treated just the same as any other tooth.
Remember to clean your teeth at least once a day, preferably
with a fluoride toothpaste. Cut down on sugary snacks,
and keep them only to mealtimes if possible. See your
dentist for regular check-ups. |
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Lemon Street, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 2NR
Tel : 01872 272 327 | Fax 01872 273 033 |
Design and maintenance |
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