An infected tooth can be treated and saved with root canal therapy if there is enough tooth structure remaining to later place a dental crown or filling.
Root canals may seem like a daunting treatment for some patients however, as treatment techniques have improved considerably, it is no longer something that patients need to be anxious about. An infected tooth can be treated and saved with a root canal if caught early enough.
At Soothing Care Dental, our patients comfort and oral health are our number one priority. When you need a root canal, there is no need to be nervous or afraid. Our trained dentists will make you feel comfortable, and will have you in and out of our practice in no time.
So, what can you expect when getting a root canal? Read below:
What is a root canal?
Root canal treatment removes the dying nerve and associated bacteria from an infected tooth. The dentist removes the inflamed or infected pulp inside the tooth’s root canal system. The tooth is then thoroughly disinfected, filled, and sealed. The main goal is to remove all infection from the tooth then seal the tooth to promote healing in the surrounding tissues. We strive to do so whilst ensuring that our patients are comfortable and that the experience goes smoothly. Root canals are a common and routine procedure – so, there is no reason to be stressed about it.
Does a root canal hurt?
When undergoing root canal treatment, the dentist will makes sure the patient receives complete anaesthesia. This treatment is no different from other dental procedures, and is similar to when a patient gets a filling – it just takes longer. Some patients may experience some soreness or discomfort for a few days after the procedure but many patients have little or no postoperative symptoms.
How long does the procedure take?
Root canal treatment on average takes two appointments to complete – this is because in most cases time is needed between appointments for healing of the infection. Each appointment takes around 60 – 90 minutes depending on case difficulty. Root canal treatment takes a significant amount of time as the techniques & medicaments used to disinfect the tooth require time to work effectively.
How long does the recovery take?
Recovering from a root canal is quiet simple. Most patients can return to work two to four hours post the procedure. Patients should wait until the numbness has dissolved to eat so they don’t accidentally damage the inside of their mouth.
If you are due for a dentist visit, or you are suffering from tooth pain, you should immediately schedule your appointment. Soothing Care Dental, your local Drummoyne dental practice, has vast experience in root canal treatment. We aim to remove the inflamed or inflected pulp inside your tooth with minimal discomfort.
For more information regarding the treatment, or to book your appointment, call us on (02) 8322 7000.
