ROOT CANAL TREATMENT

STRUCTURE OF TOOTH AND DENTAL PAIN

The nerves in the center of the tooth stay well protected, by an outer concrete-like layer called enamel and an inner cement-like layer called dentine. Unbearable toothache starts when bacteria reach the nerves of teeth in the center by burrowing through the enamel and dentine.

WHEN DOES A DENTIST RECOMMEND ROOT CANAL TREATMENT?

When the bacteria reach the nerves in the center of the tooth, severe and unbearable dental pain starts. At this point, a normal dental filling will not be helpful and the dentist will have to resort to a root canal treatment.

WHAT IS ROOT CANAL TREATMENT?

Root canal treatment is simple terms means the dentist fills the teeth right up to the root tip. The nerves within the canals of the teeth are removed, the canals are cleared of any infection and a filling is placed to block these canals to prevent the regrowth of bacteria and infection.

IS ROOT CANAL TREATMENT PAINFUL? 

Root canal treatment is carried out under local anaesthesia when the tooth and the jaw are numb. Hence, it will not be painful. Root canal treatment would relieve you of any pain.

HOW MANY VISITS ARE NEEDED FOR ROOT CANAL TREATMENT?

Generally, a root canal treatment is done in two visits. However, at times root canal treatment can be done in a single visit too. It depends on the severity of the infection, clinical and x-ray findings.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DON’T UNDERGO ROOT CANAL TREATMENT?

If a root canal treatment is not done on time, the infection within the tooth spreads to surrounding bone and gums resulting in a swelling of the face. The pain can be quite excruciating with resultant difficulty in eating, chewing, speaking and swallowing. In severe infections, the dentist might suggest removal of the tooth itself rather than root canal treatment.

CAN A TOOTH INFECTION BE CURED WITH ANTIBIOTICS?

The severity of tooth infection can be reduced by a course of antibiotics, but the infection by itself cannot be cured. The antibiotics provide some temporary relief, but the infection would come back once the effect of antibiotics is gone. The infection will not go away until and unless the primary cause which is the tooth itself is treated.