Root canal treatment is a relatively common but important dental procedure. In many cases, the complex procedure can save a tooth that is decayed or damaged.

What is root canal treatment?

It is a procedure recommended for cases where teeth have become infected and the infection has reached the pulp chamber (‘living’ tissue of the tooth which contains the nerves and blood vessels). Once the pulp becomes infected with bacteria the tooth effectively starts to die. Root canal treatment is a means of saving the tooth and is often a preferred alternative to tooth extraction.

What does the procedure involve?

The procedure involves removing the infected pulp tissue from the tooth.   Your dentist will access the pulp chambers thought the crown of the tooth.  Once all the decayed pulp has been removed, the tooth will be cleaned thoroughly and the root canals sealed with filling material. This is done to prevent the infection from spreading further.

Many people have a new crown fitted after root canal treatment, as these work to strengthen the teeth and improve the aesthetics of the smile.

Benefits of root canal treatment

Tooth loss has far-reaching implications. As well as affecting the look of your smile, which can negatively affect your confidence and self-esteem, tooth loss can also cause problems relating to everyday life. You may find it difficult to chew and break down food properly, and there may also be some adverse changes to your speech.  You can be left with a gap which is not aesthetically pleasing and you may have to consider some expensive alternatives to fill this space, i.e. bridges or implants.

The teeth also play an important role in supporting the cheeks and lips. If you lose teeth you may find that your cheeks start to appear sunken.

The procedure may seem a little daunting, but it is not as bad as it sounds when in capable hands and we provide anaesthetic to prevent any discomfort. At Dublin18 Dental Care near Stepaside we are happy to discuss the options with you.