Root Canal Treatment (RCT)

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A root canal is a very common treatment performed by specialists called endodontists as well as general dental practitioners. The root canal is a hollow channel which stretches from the very bottom of your tooths roots all the way to the tooths central chamber. Problems with your root canal are often spotted while undergoing an oral examination so make sure you attend regular dental check-up appointments. If left untreated, root canal issues can often cause tooth loss.

Symptoms for Root Canal Treatment

There are two main symptoms which tend to indicate a root canal problem; a deep cavity and accompanying tooth pain. It is typical to have a couple of X-ray photographs taken so that your dentist can assess the extent of the damage. X-rays also allow your dentist to locate the vicinity of the damage to your tooth's nerve. The cavity is often located near the pulp and if the pulp has become infected then a root canal treatment will be necessary.

Procedure for Root Canal Treatment

A root canal procedure will extract all traces of infected tissue and help alleviate the associated pain. The procedure itself is usually carried out under a local anaesthetic, which means you will be conscious throughout. Your dentist will begin by giving the damaged parts of your tooth a thorough clean. Once the pulp chamber becomes exposed, some more anaesthetic may be used on the nerve itself to alleviate any pain. Any infected tissue in the pulp chamber will then be removed and any remaining nerve tissue will be removed from the root canals. Once this is completed, your root canal is widened so that it is ready for filling. Before filling, your tooth will be disinfected and a material called gutta-percha will be pushed into the pulp to ensure a tight fit. A temporary filling is usually applied before being swapped for a permanent dental crown or filling at a follow up visit.

Aftercare following Root Canal Treatment

Once the root canal procedure is complete, the nerve extraction should have eliminated any pain. You should treat your affected tooth as you would your natural teeth. It is important to maintain a good oral hygiene regime to make sure no more problems arise. Most dentists agree that you should clean your teeth and floss at least twice a day.

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