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Root Canal Treatment
Root Canal Treatment Leicester
Root Canal Treatment is an effective way to deal with an infection within the innermost part of the tooth called the pulp.
Root canal treatment (known as endodontics) involves the removal of the infected nerve and bacteria from the tooth. When the nerve or blood supply of the tooth is infected due to deep decay, trauma or filling leakage it is essential to remove the infected tissue to prevent it from spreading further. If left untreated an abscess may eventually form and this can be very painful. Root canal treatment often allows you to save a tooth that may otherwise have to be extracted.
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
We use a local anaesthetic which should stop you feeling any pain during treatment.
Once the local anaesthetic wears off you may feel discomfort for the next 24 to 48 hours. You should rest, if possible, and take painkillers such as paracetamol and/or ibuprofen.
What does the treatment involve?
The root canal is cleaned using special instruments and materials to remove most of the bacteria in the canal. A medicated temporary filling may need to be placed in the tooth to settle the infection. At the final appointment a permanent, flexible material fills the empty space inside the root.
Once treatment is complete we will place either a composite filling or a crown (possibly cerec) onto the treated tooth in order to provide it with strength and support, as the tooth may become weakened, discoloured and brittle after the nerve has been removed.
What if the treatment doesn't work?
Root Canal Therapy in general does not carry a 100% success rate because it is amost impossible to remove all of the bacteria in the root canal system. If conventional root canal therapy fails then a specialist referral may be advised.
Other alternatives may include extraction. The space can then be filled with a bridge, implant or partial denture. This will not only prevent remaining teeth from shifting but will also aid chewing and speaking.