Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment aims to remove all infection and debris from the infected tooth. It is a skilled and time consuming procedure that can require two or more visits.
Root canal treatment is needed when the dental pulp inside of your tooth becomes inflammed or infected. This is often caused by tooth decay and is unlikely to go away on its own.
This infection is likely to spread to your other teeth and gums if left untreated, so it is of upmost importance to receive root canal treatment before more damage is caused.
During Root Canal Treatment (otherwise known as Endodontic Treatment) the inflamed or infected pulp in your tooth is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully, and very gently, cleaned and disinfected. The root of your tooth is then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Afterwards, your tooth will be restored with a crown or filling for protection.
White or tooth coloured fillings provide a healthier more natural alternative to traditional silver or amalgam fillings. They also allow for a minimally invasive restoration meaning more of your natural tooth can be preserved.
More natural looking than amalgam or silver
Many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, silver/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Porcelain inlays and Tooth Colored Restorations (onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are esthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.
The most common reason for needing a filling is to repair a tooth damaged by decay. It’s not just tooth decay that fillings are used as a treatment for though. They can also be used to repair a cracked or broken tooth, or one that is worn down – for example, from excessive grinding.
Decay is caused by bacteria feeding on bits of food unreached by cleaning. It can become extensive before you notice it or feel any pain from it. Your teeth should be regularly checked for signs of decay, and cleaned by a dental hygienist, so any decay can be dealt with as early as possible.
As a tooth decays, a cavity, which is effectively a hole, forms. If the cavity resulting from tooth decay is left unfilled, the decay spreads further and can cause significant pain and, ultimately, the loss of the tooth altogether. By filling a tooth, the spread of decay, and any associated pain, is stopped, and the tooth can function normally again