What is a root canal treatment?

Root canal therapy is required when the nerve of the tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This may occur due a variety of reasons including:

• Deep decay
• A previous filling extending to or in very close proximity to the nerve of the tooth
• A cracked or fractured tooth
• An accident has impacted the nerve of the tooth

What are some of the signs and symptoms that indicate I might need a RCT?

The following are common signs of irreversible changes in the nerve of a tooth which may require a root canal therapy:

• Pain when biting or chewing
• Severe, sometimes lingering, pain from hot or cold foods and beverages, even after ceasing chewing or drinking
• A swelling or gum boil near the sore tooth
• Tender gums near the sore tooth
• Pus around the sore tooth or a bad taste in the mouth
• Darkening of the tooth

What does the RCT procedure involve and why are there multiple appointments?

Generally, to complete a root canal therapy there will be two main stages of treatment:

1. Stage 1 is to clean out infected nerve tissue and shape the root canals for the root filling material, and
2. Stage 2 is to place the root filling material in the tooth.

If you present in severe pain, emergency treatment may be required as an initial appointment to relieve symptoms, however you will still be required to return to complete Stages 1 and 2. Depending on the nature of the infection and condition of the tooth, completing the entire RCT procedure can take anywhere from 2 to 4 appointments. The treatment typically involves the following steps:

1. Initially to form an accurate diagnosis your dentist will take initial x-rays of the tooth. This may show the area of infection/abscess.
2. Local anaesthetic is administered to numb the tooth.
3. A small rubber sheet (called rubber dam) is placed around the tooth to isolate it from the rest of the mouth and keep the area sterile.
4. If there is decay present, this will all be removed and a small access hole is made through the crown in order to access the nerve or pulp chamber in the middle of the tooth.
5. mall instruments are then used to clean the tooth completely and remove the infected nerve tissue from the pulp chamber, as well as the roots.
6. A medication is then placed in the tooth which helps to kill the bacteria and the tooth is sealed with a temporary restoration
7. A metal band may be placed around the tooth to protect it from fracture during treatment
8. When the tooth is asymptomatic and there is clinical evidence of healing, then root canals can be filled with a root filling material called Gutta Percha and the tooth is sealed. This completes the RCT treatment.
9. Once the RCT is completed, depending upon the condition of the tooth, a crown may be recommended to provide long term protection for the tooth.

In cases of a long-standing infection or if a chronic abscess has developed at the end of the tooth, additional appointments may be required to allow for complete healing of the infection prior to commencing Stage 2. This process involves re-dressing the tooth by placing a new medication in the tooth. This takes place in between Stages 1 and 2.

Our dentists have extensive experience performing this treatment and understand how important it is to guide you through the process so you understand what is happening every step of the way. Please contact us in orderto book a consultation to discuss your treatment options.