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Root Canal Treatment at Shenton Park Family Dental

Root canal therapy is one of the last lines of defence we have for preserving abscessed or severely decayed teeth. This therapeutic procedure helps prevent the need for tooth extractions and treats the source of both pain and infection.

What Is a Root Canal?

Root Canal illustrationAny time a tooth abscesses, it’s typically due to trauma or a large cavity. When bacteria reach and compromise the nerve tissues inside of the tooth, they begin to die, swell or develop chronic infections. Root canal treatments are the only therapeutic solution that treats your tooth from the inside, at the source of the compromised pulp tissue. It’s essentially a ‘root filling’ that extends down the hollow nerve chamber through the length of the root.

Do I Need a Root Canal?

There are typically two reasons we recommend root canals. The first is infection to the inner nerve tissues of the tooth. Since they’re trapped inside of the tooth root, there is nowhere for them to go (and blood flow is limited to help naturally flush out the infection). The other is inflammation, which can cause the tooth to become hypersensitive. In such cases, removing the pulp tissues is the best way to get rid of the pain.

You could require a root canal if you’re experiencing

  • A visible abscess
  • Large area of decay
  • Pain when eating or drinking
  • Sensitivity to heat
  • Past trauma to the tooth, causing the nerve to die

During your visit to our office, we’ll thoroughly evaluate your tooth’s integrity and the extent of any infection. A small X-ray or two may be necessary (to evaluate the overall root and screen for abscesses). From there, we can determine if you need a root canal or if another option is available. Rest assured that we’ll review all of our findings with you so that you can play a direct role in planning out the course of your care.

FAQ

What’s involved in root canal treatment?

The treatment involves removing the pulp (nerve and blood vessels) of the tooth, then filling up the space left behind. Depending on which tooth it is, we’ll sometimes place a filling or crown over it when necessary.

Are root canals painful?

We do everything possible to ensure that this appointment isn’t uncomfortable for our patients. Occasionally, we may need to use a little extra anaesthetic to numb the area. If there’s chronic inflammation, an antibiotic leading up to the appointment can minimise swelling to help the numbing medication work more effectively.

What is the recovery process like?

Occasionally some people will experience some tenderness but it can usually be controlled with an over-the-counter pain reliever. If you have any questions or concerns following your appointment, we encourage you to give us a call.

Are there alternatives to root canal treatment?

Unfortunately the only option other than a root canal is to remove the tooth altogether. However, if you have a cavity or other lesion that needs to be treated, it’s possible to intervene and restore the area sooner, before the infection spreads into the nerve of your tooth.

Gentle Root Canal Therapy

Your comfort and oral health are our top priorities. Throughout your procedure, we’ll care for you as we would a member of our own family. Contact Shenton Park Family Dental today for more root canal treatment information.
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Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.

Root Canal Treatment in Shenton Park, Subiaco, Dalglish WA | (08) 9381 8700