Root Canal Treatment
A root canal treatment is a procedure that involves shaping and cleaning the infected root system of your teeth. A root canal treatment is indicated when the pulp of your teeth is infected. The treatment aims at removing the infection and saving the tooth so that it may be retained in your mouth.
What Can You Expect
Consultation. The process starts with a thorough examination of your mouth and tooth in question. Pre-treatment radiographs are taken to determine the restorability, prognosis and complexity of the tooth.
Procedure. Profound anaesthesia is first administered, following which the decay and infected material is removed from the tooth. The whole process generally last 1 to 2 hours depending on the complexity and infection. If the infection severe, an additional appointment is required to thoroughly remove any persistent bacteria. After the root canal treatment is completed, a filling, also known as a core, is placed. Because the tooth has undergone much damage, a crown may be indicated to prevent further breakage.
Post-procedure. Some discomfort and mild pain is expected after a root canal treatment as the area is healing. Do not worry, this is usually self-limiting and can be managed by over-the-counter pain medication.