Root canal therapy may be indicated if a tooth has an extensive amount of decay which makes its way into the nerve of the tooth. Similarly, if a tooth is cracked or traumatised it may also require RCT. Symptoms can include severe pain and swelling if an abscess develops. Root canal therapy is often the only alternative to extraction, thus enabling us to save your tooth. We recommend saving your teeth whenever possible, as there is currently no replacement option as good!
During endodontic therapy, we clean out the inside of the tooth and remove the bacteria from the canal space. Often, we’ll place some medicine down into the hollow chamber and let it rest for another week or two. At that point, we can be confident that all of the bacteria are killed off (which are the primary source of your discomfort).
The second phase of your root canal will involve filling the inner nerve chambers with a rubber-like material. This step seals off the canals to prevent reinfection.
If your tooth has severe inflammation, it can make the procedure a bit more challenging, because it’s difficult to numb the area. We will do everything possible to ensure your comfort.
Depending on the tooth, some root canal appointments are quicker than others. The procedure could last a half hour for one tooth, while more complicated cases (such as those with multiple roots) can take a couple of hours.
During endodontic therapy, we clean out the inside of the tooth and remove the bacteria from the canal space. Often, we’ll place some medicine down into the hollow chamber and let it rest for another week or two. At that point, we can be confident that all of the bacteria are killed off (which are the primary source of your discomfort).
The second phase of your root canal will involve filling the inner nerve chambers with a rubber-like material. This step seals off the canals to prevent reinfection.
If your tooth has severe inflammation, it can make the procedure a bit more challenging, because it’s difficult to numb the area. We will do everything possible to ensure your comfort.
Depending on the tooth, some root canal appointments are quicker than others. The procedure could last a half hour for one tooth, while more complicated cases (such as those with multiple roots) can take a couple of hours.
Dr Anthony Lazarou completed his studies at the University of Melbourne in 2015, receiving a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. He furthered his studies by completing a Fellowship in Implant Dentistry at the Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, USA.
It’s always best to address tooth decay as early as possible. If we see a cavity, placing a simple filling is less invasive than getting a root canal. However, root canal treatment is the last line of defence before an extraction is needed. They play an important role when it comes to the future integrity and function of your smile.
When a tooth is repaired from the inside, it loses some of its overall strength and ability to cope with the normal pressures and forces from daily activities such as chewing and clenching. To avoid further catastrophic cracks where the tooth becomes unrestorable, a crown over your tooth is an integral part of the completion of the root canal restoration process.
A painful toothache or abscessed tooth can be one of the worst dental emergencies you’ll ever experience. Fortunately, we offer same-day emergency dental care. Appointments are available for new and existing patients. But if you’re calling after hours, someone will be in contact with you to walk you through what to do next. Getting you out of pain is our top priority. In the meantime, taking an anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen can provide temporary relief.
If you think you need root canal treatment, request a consultation and exam with our dentist today.
