When you have just recovered from a dental infection or trauma to the mouth, the last thing you will want to think about is another dental procedure.
As unpleasant as a dental infection can be, it is important to remember that once the swelling has gone down and the discomfort has receded, the affected tooth still needs to be treated. Why? Because an infection to your tooth is usually caused by bacteria accessing the pulp; without treatment, this can happen again and a second infection to the same tooth can cause a lot of damage if not treated properly.
So what options are there? There is the standard extraction, but if your tooth can be saved, our team will recommend a root canal.
Our general dentist for Whanganui New Zealand has helped hundreds of patients restore damaged teeth with root canals and can ensure that your treatment will go as smoothly as possible. A simple procedure that may be spread over 2 appointments, we will gently remove any infected debris from the pulp and pack the tooth with filling agents, to ensure that the pulp stays concealed and no bacteria can ever get access again! Simple!
But you may have heard some rumours about root canals and will probably have some questions. Here, we answer your top 5.
Will it kill the tooth?
In a word, no.
As a root canal does not remove the root, your tooth will not die. Our general dentist for Whanganui New Zealand will take time to gently remove the infected debris and clean the tooth, to ensure it feels and functions as it did prior to the infection.
Is it uncomfortable?
There may be a sensation akin to bruising once you get home, but our general dentist for Whanganui New Zealand will be able to suggest suitable over-the-counter pain relief.
During the procedure, you will be numbed and any associated sensations will be less intense than an abscess!
I heard it weakens the tooth - is this true?
As we will remove any debris from the tooth by drilling down to the root, this can make your tooth a bit more fragile and prone to breaking.
However, we will ensure that the packing material we use will restore the durability of your tooth and we will top off our work with either a filling or a crown.
Isn’t an extraction easier?
Technically yes, but it has longer-lasting ramifications.
Extractions can cause surrounding teeth to shift due to jawbone shrinkage and of course, if the infected tooth was one at the front, there is an obvious cosmetic disadvantage.
A root canal offers an aesthetically pleasing option to restore a tooth and offers no long-term or secondary consequences. Brilliant!
How long do the effects last?
A correctly applied root canal should last the rest of your life; it's beneath the gum, so should not succumb to any issues with pressure or cracks.
If you suspect you have an issue with your root canal, contact our team.
DISCLAIMER
All treatment carries risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.