Microscopic Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that is designed to eliminate pain, treat infection, and save a tooth that is severely damaged or diseased. The procedure is often a last resort for dentists when other treatments, such as fillings, crowns, or antibiotics, have not been successful.

Root canal treatment involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the tooth’s canal, then filling and sealing the canal to prevent further infection. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that are vital to the development of the tooth, but once the tooth is fully formed, it can function without the pulp.

The procedure is typically performed in two or three visits to the dentist, depending on the severity of the damage or infection. After the procedure is complete, the tooth will be restored with a filling or crown to protect and strengthen it.Many people are anxious about root canal treatment, but it is a routine procedure that is performed successfully every day. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth recovery.

There are several reasons why a root canal may be necessary.

Firstly, tooth decay can lead to an infection that can spread to the tooth’s pulp, which is the soft tissue located inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. This can cause immense pain and discomfort.

Secondly, a tooth that has suffered trauma, such as a fracture or a chip, can also expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to an infection.

Thirdly, if a tooth has undergone multiple dental procedures or restorations, it may eventually require a root canal.

In some cases, a patient may not experience any symptoms of a problem with their tooth’s pulp. However, if left untreated, an infected or damaged pulp can lead to an abscess, a potentially life-threatening condition, as the infection can spread to other parts of the body.

Ultimately, a root canal procedure is necessary to remove the infected or damaged pulp and prevent further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues. While root canals may have a bad reputation, with modern techniques and anaesthesia, the procedure is relatively painless and can save a tooth from extraction.

If you are in pain and think you may need root canal treatment, contact our practices immediately.

We use a Flexicon Advanced Endodontic microscope to diagnose and treat root canal problems. This state-of-the-art microscope allows us to take highly-detailed images of your teeth and gums. We use these images to properly ascertain the extent of any root canal issues.

Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that is used to treat infected or damaged teeth. The treatment involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth and cleaning out the root canals before filling and sealing them. If you are scheduled for a root canal treatment, it’s important to know what to expect during the procedure.Firstly, our dentist will administer local anaesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. This ensures that you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Our dentist will then make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp. Using specialised tools, they will remove the pulp and clean out the root canals to ensure that there is no infection left in the tooth.

Once the tooth has been thoroughly cleaned, the dentist will fill the root canals with a rubber-like material like gutta-percha and seal the opening with a filling. Depending on the condition of your tooth, the dentist may recommend placing a dental crown over the tooth to protect it from further damage.

Overall, root canal treatment can take one or two appointments to complete depending on the severity of the infection or damage to the tooth. Our dentist will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your tooth after the procedure. With proper care, a treated tooth can last a lifetime and prevent the need for more extensive dental work in the future.

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that is used to save a tooth that is decayed or infected. It involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from the tooth, cleaning the area, and then filling and sealing it. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the procedure:

• Step 1: Anaesthesia – Our dentist will use a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth.
• Step 2: Access – Our dentist will create an access hole in the top of the tooth to reach the pulp.
• Step 3: Cleaning and shaping – Using specialised tools, the dentist will remove the damaged or infected pulp from the inside of the tooth and shape the area to prepare it for filling.
• Step 4: Filling – The dentist will fill the area with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha and seal it with adhesive cement.
• Step 5: Crown – Depending on the extent of the damage, the dentist may recommend placing a crown on the tooth to provide additional support and protection.
• Step 6: Follow-up – After the procedure, the dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor the healing process and ensure that the tooth is functioning properly.

While root canal treatment may sound daunting, it is a common dental procedure that is typically performed with little to no pain or discomfort. If you are experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms, it is important to schedule an appointment with our dentist as soon as possible to determine if root canal treatment is necessary.

Unfortunately in some cases, if the problem is not caught in time, your tooth goes beyond the point of no return. This means that your tooth has gone past the stage where it can survive the root canal. If this is the case, your dentist will suggest extraction. 

Out of the two procedures, extraction can be the more uncomfortable option. 

When debating whether to get a root canal treatment or extraction it is all a matter of the condition of the tooth at hand. If its structure is still strong then having a root canal would be the better option to save the tooth. Your dentist will first try all the options of saving the tooth without having to resort to extraction.

The two options are very different procedures which come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

To discuss the best options for restoring your teeth, contact us today to book an appointment.

A filling and root canal are two different treatments used for different purposes. A filling is used to fix a tooth that has decay closer to the surface of the tooth, not in the root. A filling restores the function and cosmetic appearance of the tooth. 

A root canal is needed when there is severe decay and an infection deep in the tooth pulp that needs to be resolved with a root canal treatment before it gets worse over time. The root canal clears away bacteria and damaged tissues to relieve any pain and save the entire tooth, not surface area decay.

A successful root canal treatment can cause you some pain for a few days after it has been completed. This pain should go away on its own within a few days as long as you keep up with good oral hygiene practices. 

If the pain lasts longer than three days or you have any continued pain at any time after the procedure, you should get it addressed as soon as possible. 

Everyone has different healing times so some people’s teeth may take a bit longer to heal than others. If that is the case, there may be minor discomfort for a longer time after the treatment if you heal more slowly. This can be determined by your dentist. If you are having any prolonged pain, book an appointment immediately to get it assessed. 

Contact us today to book a root canal treatment consultation at our Wandsworth dental practice or Esher dental practice.

• The treatment is performed under local anaesthesia, therefore making it completely painless
• No need for extraction, great treatment to save a dying tooth
• Root canals expand the lifespan of a decaying tooth
• Efficient and cost effective
• Visually appealing results

Although root canal treatment is generally safe and effective, there are potential complications that patients should be aware of. These include:

• Infection: In some cases, despite the best efforts of the dentist, an infection may persist or develop after the procedure. This may require further treatment, such as antibiotics or even a repeat root canal.
• Pain: It is normal to experience some discomfort or sensitivity after a root canal. However, severe or prolonged pain may indicate a problem, such as a missed canal or a cracked tooth.
• Numbness or tingling: In rare cases, the nerves surrounding the treated tooth may be damaged during the procedure, leading to numbness or tingling in the lips or tongue. This is usually temporary and resolves on its own within a few hours or days.
• Fracture: Root canal treatment can weaken the tooth, making it more susceptible to fractures. Patients may need to have a crown or other restoration placed to protect the tooth.
• Discoloration: The treated tooth may become discoloured over time, particularly if it was badly decayed or discoloured before the procedure. This can usually be corrected with cosmetic dental procedures, such as veneers or bonding.

It is important to discuss any concerns or potential complications with our dentist before undergoing root canal treatment. Our dentist can provide you with more information on the risks and benefits of the procedure, as well as any alternative treatments that may be available.

Contact our practices in  Wandsworth dental practice or Esher dental practice today to find out if a root canal procedure is right for you.

The procedure of a root canal can sound very scary but there is very little to no pain because your dentist will use local anaesthesia to numb your tooth and gums so you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. However, if your infection is quite severe it might take longer than usual to numb the whole area.

When it comes to root canal treatment, many patients may be concerned about the anaesthesia options available. The good news is that modern dental practices use advanced anaesthesia techniques to ensure that patients feel as comfortable as possible during the procedure.

The most common anaesthesia option is local anaesthesia, which involves injecting a numbing agent near the affected tooth. This will completely numb the tooth and surrounding area, so the patient should not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.

In some cases, patients may feel anxious or nervous about the procedure, in which case the dentist may recommend sedation. Sedation can be administered orally or intravenously and helps patients to feel relaxed and calm during the procedure. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who have dental phobias or anxiety.

It’s important to discuss your concerns and preferences with our dentist before the procedure so that they can recommend the best anaesthesia option for you. Our dentist will also explain the anaesthesia process in detail so that you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. With the right anaesthesia option and a skilled dental professional, root canal treatment can be a comfortable and successful experience.

Aftercare is an essential component of root canal treatment, and it is important to follow our dentist’s instructions carefully to ensure a speedy and successful recovery.

After the procedure, our dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your teeth and gums during the healing process. These instructions may include guidelines on eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. You may also be given painkillers or antibiotics to help manage any discomfort or prevent infection.

In the first few days after the treatment, it is common to experience some sensitivity or discomfort. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter painkillers, but if you experience severe pain or swelling, you should contact our dentist immediately.

It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing regularly, to prevent any further damage to the tooth. You may need to avoid hard or sticky foods for a few days after the treatment and chew on the opposite side of your mouth to prevent any irritation or damage.

With proper care and attention, most patients experience a full recovery within a few days or weeks after root canal treatment. However, if you experience any ongoing pain, sensitivity, or other symptoms, it is important to contact our dentist right away as this could indicate a complication or further issues with the treated tooth.

Contact our Wandsworth dental practice or Esher dental practice today to book a root canal procedure or find out how to look after one you’ve already had.

While root canal treatment is a highly effective and common procedure, there are alternative treatments that can be considered depending on the severity of the case and the patient’s needs.

One alternative is tooth extraction, where the affected tooth is removed completely. While this may be a quicker and less expensive option, it can lead to a number of complications such as difficulty in chewing, shifting of teeth, and bone loss in the jaw.

Another alternative is the use of antibiotics to treat infections in the tooth. However, antibiotics alone may not be enough to completely treat the infection and can also lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

In some cases, a procedure called pulp capping may be recommended. This involves placing a medication directly on the exposed pulp to encourage the growth of new dentin and protect the pulp from further damage. However, this treatment is only effective in certain situations and may not be appropriate for all cases.

It is important to discuss all possible options with our dentist or endodontist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Ultimately, the goal is to preserve the natural tooth and restore its function and appearance in the most effective and least invasive way possible.

Root canal treatment is typically performed on natural teeth. If you have a dental implant nearby, your endodontist will evaluate the situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

It’s extremely rare for a root canal procedure to cause facial numbness. The local anesthesia used during the procedure is designed to prevent this, and any post-operative numbness is usually temporary and resolves on its own.

While root canal therapy is the most common method for saving an infected tooth, alternative treatments like apicoectomy (surgical root canal) or tooth extraction followed by a dental implant or bridge may be considered in some cases. Your endodontist will discuss the options based on your specific situation.

Although rare, a tooth can require a second root canal treatment (retreatment) if the initial treatment doesn’t completely resolve the infection. This is more common in complex cases.

Yes, a tooth that has had a root canal can still develop cavities on the exposed surfaces if proper oral hygiene is not maintained. Regular dental check-ups and good oral care are essential to prevent this.

Allergic reactions to materials used in root canal treatment are extremely rare. Endodontists use biocompatible materials that are well-tolerated by the body.

Root canal treatment is generally safe during pregnancy, especially if you are experiencing pain or infection. However, it’s essential to inform your dentist or endodontist if you are pregnant so they can take appropriate precautions.

Yes, a root canal can be performed on a tooth with a crown or bridge. In some cases, the crown or bridge may need to be temporarily removed during the procedure and replaced afterward.

Our practice is known for its expertise in performing successful and comfortable root canal procedures. We use a state-of-the-art microscope and prioritize patient comfort and satisfaction.