Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is a procedure to save teeth that are badly decayed or infected. There are nerve chambers inside each tooth which can be infected by bacteria and can cause the following symptoms:
- Constant throbbing or sharp pain
- Sensitivity to cold or hot food and drinks
- Swelling of adjacent gums
The treatment involves eliminating the bacteria from the infected areas and filling it with a special material to prevent further infection.
Frequently asked questions
Why choose root canal treatment?
When your teeth are infected there are usually two options: root canal treatment and teeth extraction. We generally try to use root canal treatment in the first instance to save your teeth as this is the more conservative and cost effective option.
What causes the infection?
Below are the main causes of root canal infection
- Dental decay – this is the most common cause. If a cavity exists and is not filled, it will grow and eventually reach the nerve chamber.
- Fillings – The nerve chamber can be infected by a broken, loose or deep filling.
- Trauma – Injury to the face around the area of the tooth can lead to cracks. Teeth grinding can also wear down the surface and expose the nerve chambers to bacteria.