When you have a dental abscess, chances are, you are willing to undergo any procedure in order to stop the discomfort.
But, oddly, when our dental team recommends the most common and successful treatment option to our patients, which is a root canal, we are met with apprehension.
Many patients do not want to receive this procedure which our team feels is a shame, as it preserves the tooth, preserves your smile, and can help to maintain overall oral hygiene.
When you come to see our team at the Dentist on Glasgow, our general dentist for Whanganui New Zealand will always aim to preserve teeth. And, if your tooth is in good condition despite having an abscess under it, we will usually recommend a root canal.
But, we are aware that patients may be worried about having a root canal. So, in this article, our general dentist for Whanganui New Zealand will introduce you to the process, so you can learn more about it and see the advantages that it offers.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental or endodontic procedure performed by our general dentist for Whanganui New Zealand that is designed to remove infected or damaged tissue from the inside of a tooth. This tissue, called the pulp, contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue and is essential for the development and growth of a tooth. However, if the pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can cause pain and swelling and may cause an abscess to form, which is a pocket of pus that forms at the end of the tooth's root.
The aim of having a root canal is to remove the damaged or infected pulp and clean the inside of the tooth. This will help to prevent further infection, preserve the tooth, and alleviate any discomfort or pain that may be associated with the condition. In most cases, the procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and typically takes one or two appointments to complete.
Stage one of a root canal
The first step in any root canal procedure is to numb the affected area with a local anaesthetic. This will help to minimise any discomfort during the procedure. Our dental team will then create an opening in the top of the tooth and remove the damaged or infected pulp. They will clean the inside of the tooth and shape it to prepare it for filling.
Once the inside of the tooth has been cleaned, we will fill it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This material is used to help seal the inside of the tooth and prevent bacteria from re-entering. In some cases, a temporary filling may be placed over the opening in the tooth to protect it while our dental team waits for the anaesthetic to wear off.
After the fitting
After the root canal procedure, it is normal to experience some sensitivity, pain, or discomfort. Over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, can be taken to alleviate these symptoms. In most cases, the pain and discomfort will subside within a few days, and normal activities can be resumed.
In some cases, a crown or a filling may be necessary to protect the tooth and restore its function. We will discuss the options with you and recommend the best course of action based on your individual needs.
DISCLAIMER
All treatment carries risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.
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