When is root canal treatment required?

Root canal treatment is required when the nerve of the tooth has been affected by decay, infection, or large fractures. Many people believe that removing the affected tooth is the solution. However, this can end up being more costly and can cause significant problems for adjacent teeth in the future. Root canal treatment, followed by placement of a crown is highly successful and can often last a lifetime.

 

Signs and symptoms for possible root canal treatment:

• An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.

• Sensitivity to hot and cold.

• Severe toothache pain

• Sometimes no symptoms are present but evidence scan be seen on an x-ray 

• Swelling and/or tenderness.

• The tooth feels slightly loose and may have a bad taste coming from it.

 

What does root canal treatment involve?

During root canal treatment, the inside of the tooth that usually houses the nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue is cleaned of any decay and bacteria, and a sterile environment is created in order to allow the area around the tooth to heal. At a following appointment, the tooth is filled with a special, medicated dental material and sealed off to maintain a sterile environment.

 

To protect the tooth and restore the tooth to its full function, all teeth that have had root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. The crown will protect the tooth from breaking and together with good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the longevity of your root canal treatment.

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