Why do we need Root Canal therapy?
When the nerve of a tooth becomes infected, there are usually only two
options available. One option is to remove the tooth and then replace that
missing tooth with a partial plate, bridge or implant if a good candidate. The other is to
have root canal therapy. This usually happens because of trauma (a bad knock) to
the tooth, or deep decay.
When the nerve of the tooth becomes infected and/or dies, it often causes an
abscess at the base of the tooth—the apex of the root. Sometimes the body can
deal with this but more often than not pain, swelling and inflammation occurs
and if left untreated this can become chronic, and very dangerous. When faced
with this challenge, some patients opt for removal of the tooth, leaving a gap in the mouth which in itself can cause problems.
The procedure:
If the infection is acute—the Dentist may prescribe antibiotics on the
first visit to allow the area to settle before treatment on the tooth can begin.
The next stage is to open the crown (top) of the tooth to expose the nerve or
root canal. Small instruments called reamers are used to clean out the canal of
nerve debris and to place an antibiotic paste into the area. Most patients
report noticeable pain relief after this appointment. At subsequent appointments, the
canals are cleaned, shaped, measured and finally filled with a rubber-like
material, and finally a filling or crown is placed on top of the tooth.
Depending on the severity of the infection, number of canals or reaction to
treatment, you could require 3-4 visits to your Dentist. Sometimes he/she will
place a temporary filling for a period of 3-6 months to ensure the tooth is
settling. An X-ray is usually taken at this time as a record to see that in
future the area is healing properly.
Possible indications that you may have a dental abscess:
- Pain or throbbing while biting
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods
- Severe decay
- An injury to a tooth/teeth
- Swelling in facial area
To make an appointment:
Please contact the Champion Dental Centre on 04 237 9081 or the Kapiti Dental
Centre on 04 298 6754 to make an appointment.
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