What Is a Root Canal Treatment? Every Question Answered

What Is a Root Canal Treatment? Every Question Answered

10-01-2024

Toothache is never welcome. But even when dental pain strikes at an inconvenient time, it should not be ignored. Often, the pain you are experiencing is a warning sign telling you to take action. 

Sometimes, the toothache can only be alleviated with a root canal treatment. But putting off seeing your dentist because you want to avoid this procedure is never a good idea. 

To help you take action and get the treatment you need, we’ve compiled a guide to root canals that answer all the most commonly asked questions. Read on to learn more about what to expect from your root canal treatment. 

What Is a Root Canal Treatment?

A root canal treatment is a routine procedure to remove the infection from a tooth. The procedure takes its name from the root canals extending down below the gums’ surface into the jaw. Root canals contain living tissue and nerve endings. The number of root canals on each tooth varies, with some having up to four. 

What Causes Teeth To Become Infected?

Infections occur when bacteria enter the tooth. This can happen when the surface of the tooth is damaged either through injury or as a result of tooth decay. 

Once inside the tooth, bacteria will spread to the pulp chamber at the centre. This chamber is filled with living cells and nerve endings, which become inflamed when infected by harmful bacteria. It’s this inflammation that causes the severe throbbing toothache. 

What Happens During a Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatments are simple procedures to remove the infection from a tooth and save it. We enter the tooth, remove all infected matter, and sterilise it.

Once the tooth is cleaned inside, we fill it with a latex-like material before closing it with a filling. We often recommend fitting a crown to protect the tooth from further damage and infection. 

Are Root Canal Treatments Painful?

The actual root canal procedure itself is not painful. We perform the whole thing while you’re under local anaesthesia so that you won’t experience any discomfort. Root canals are often associated with pain, primarily because the toothache caused by the infection is often unbearable. The root canal treatment will rid you of this toothache. 

How Long Does It Take To Recover After a Root Canal?

Recovery from root canal treatment is usually brief. Although you may experience some sensitivity around the previously infected tooth for a short time, any toothache should have gone following the procedure. 

Once your anaesthetic wears off, you can eat and drink as usual. In some cases, residual infection may require a short course of antibiotic treatment. 

Is It Easier To Remove a Tooth Rather than Have a Root Canal?

Although extracting a tooth may be quicker than a root canal treatment, it isn’t helpful. Our aim is always to preserve your teeth. Removing teeth can prompt further dental issues and increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. 

What Happens If You Don’t Get a Root Canal When You Need One?

Dental infections spread. Infections inside your teeth can lead to abscesses and problems in your gums, jaws, and neighbouring teeth. Without treatment, a dental infection can enter your bloodstream and cause sepsis. This could infect your vital organs and become fatal. 

We recommend receiving a root canal treatment promptly to avoid any further health complications. 

What Is a Dental Abscess? 

An abscess is a pocket of pus which forms under a tooth. It is very painful and causes considerable swelling and bad breath. If an abscess forms, it will need to be drained. 

How Can I Avoid Needing a Root Canal Treatment?

You can avoid root canal treatments by maintaining a high standard of oral hygiene and visiting us regularly. 

• Brush thoroughly twice daily using a fluoride toothpaste and soft toothbrush
• Replace your brush often
• Use floss every day to remove debris from between your teeth
• Rinse your mouth with mouthwash
• Visit us twice a year for checkups
• Book regular appointments with our hygienist

Root Canal Treatment in Dartford

Root canal treatment is essential if you have an infected tooth. Although the procedure may make you anxious, it is routine and straightforward. Our friendly and supportive staff will be here to guide you through the whole process. 

Get in touch with us today to book your appointment.