Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment aims at saving a tooth that may otherwise need extraction. Such a tooth is usually in a lot of pain, where the nerve of the tooth is infected by decay. This procedure aims at saving the tooth structure but removing the infection within the tooth and thereby also treating the pain. The nerve of the tooth is replaced with a rubber based filling. It is usually preferable to save a tooth rather than taking it out.
What you need to know about the tooth to better understand Root Canal Treatment...
If we think of the tooth like a pumpkin we can better understand the tooth's anatomy. A pumpkin has thick tough and strong skin, which is similar to the outside layer of the tooth enamel (the visible part of the tooth crown). As you cut into a pumpkin past the skin, you will notice the yellow, orange softer section - this is like the tooth's second layer - the dentine. Now located in the centre of the pumpkin is a hollow space full of 'squishy soft mush' and pumpkin seeds - or in the case of a tooth- the nerve chamber that consists of pulp tissue. The pulp consists of specialised dental cells, blood vessels, tissue fibres and some nerve fibres. The pulp is a sensitive tissue that provides oxygen, nutrients and feeling to the tooth. The root is the 'prong' that helps anchor the tooth into the jaw.
How do I know I need a Root Canal Treatment?
The dentist will listen to your symptoms, examine your teeth and take x-rays. A diseased tooth pulp may cause inflammation or infection. The symptoms of a damaged or diseased tooth pulp may include:
- Unprovoked tooth ache
- Gradual change in tooth's colour
- Sensitivity to hot and cold drinks and foods
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Loosening of the tooth
- Swelling and pus around the tooth and gum
- Facial swelling.
Sometimes, the tooth pulp may become damaged or diseased without presenting any symptoms. In these cases, the problem is usually diagnosed by x-rays and a dental check up.
What happens if I don't get Root Canal Treatment? read more
What is involved in Root Canal Treatment Procedure? read more
Will the tooth look the same after Root Canal Treatment? read more
What are the causes of pulp damage that leads to Root Canal Treatment? read more
Why is replacing a missing tooth so important? read more
