What is a Root Canal, and Why Might You Need One?

For many, hearing the words “root canal” can send a shiver down their spine. This treatment is pretty serious, but there is no need to fear, as it is very common. The procedure certainly is a lot easier to endure compared to the pain you are likely facing right now.

So what exactly is a root canal treatment? When might your dentist recommend this procedure? And are there any alternative remedies that can save your damaged tooth? Let’s take a look. 

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

In dentistry, a root canal treatment is referred to as endodontic therapy. This treatment is recommended if your tooth is severely infected, decayed or damaged. 

With this procedure, the area is first numbed with the help of local anaesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain at all, despite being awake. After this, the pulp (soft tissue) inside the tooth and inside the root is removed, cleaned, and disinfected. This creates a large cavity or open space inside the tooth that is filled with biocompatible materials. These filler materials are designed to maintain the tooth’s structure and strength so you can continue using the tooth.

After treating the infection or damage, the tooth is restored. During this step, a permanent crown or filling is placed on the tooth to strengthen and protect it. 

It is important to note that a root canal can sometimes involve several steps and might require more than one dentist visit. In case of severe infection, the patient might need two visits. During the first visit, the infection is treated. Once the infection clears up, you will need to return for the procedure. 

Root canals are incredibly successful. If your tooth is properly restored by a Newtown dentist and properly cared for, it can last a lifetime. This procedure has a 90-95% success rate, which means you are very likely to step out of the dentist’s office with a fully restored tooth.  

When You Might Need a Root Canal

A root canal isn’t something your dentist will recommend for just any tooth damage or cavity. This procedure is quite serious and is only done in case of severe tooth damage or decay. Your local Newtown root canal dentist will only recommend this procedure if the pulp inside the tooth becomes inflamed. 

The pulp might be affected when your tooth is cracked or broken, or when there is a deep cavity in the tooth. A root canal is mostly preventable if cavities and other tooth issues like cracks or breaks are treated and restored immediately. Here are a few signs that you might need to book an appointment for a root canal treatment.

• Persistent tooth pain with throbbing and aches, especially while eating.
• Lingering sensitivity to cold or heat.
• Discolouration where the tooth might seem darker or greyish.
• Swollen gums and tenderness near the affected area.
• A pimple or abscess on the gum can be a sign of a serious infection.
• Cracks or chips in the tooth that might expose the pulp or nerves.

Potential Alternatives to Root Canal Treatments in Newtown

While root canals are pain-free and highly successful, dentists do sometimes recommend alternative remedies. 

• A Pulpotomy

This method involves removing the pulp (including nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue) but leaves the tooth root in place. This is common in children with baby teeth, but can only be performed when the tooth is still mostly healthy.

• Direct Pulp Capping

In cases where pulp exposure is minimal and there are no signs of infection, a dentist may recommend direct pulp capping. This involves placing a protective material over the exposed pulp to encourage healing and preserve the natural tooth.

• Tooth Extraction

Removing the entire tooth can be an option in case of severe tooth decay or damage. This is mainly used as a last resort.

Don’t Ignore Dental Pain: See Our Newtown Dentists

Root canal treatments are hardly your only option, and can even be prevented if you get the needed treatment early on. Don’t ignore tooth pain or signs like discolouration or cavities. Book your appointment now at Blue Tooth Dental and get the treatment you need. Our experienced Newtown dentists will do everything in their power to save and restore your tooth.