Root Fillings

Root Fillings

Post by : Dr Keiron Thompson BDS GDC No. 228585 | 12 May 2023

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that replaces a tooth’s damaged or infected pulp with a filling. The pulp consists of specialised dental cells, blood vessels, tissue fibres and some nerve fibres located in the hollow space in the central part of the tooth. The dental procedure is also known as endodontic treatment.

Success rates for endodontic treatment are generally good. About 90 to 95 per cent of patients who undergo root canal treatment can expect a functional tooth after the treatment. The treated tooth should last a very long time, provided that you maintain good oral hygiene and generally look after your teeth. Of course, no therapy or replacement will last as well as a healthy tooth.

WHAT LEADS TO ROOT CANAL ISSUES

The following are the most common factors contributing to need for root canal treatment:

• Deep decay or large fillings that have lead to the nerve (pulp) in the tooth dying and causing pain
• Traumatic events, such as a physical blow to the tooth

Tooth pulp irritation and infection can cause pain, facial swelling, and even compromised bone structure. Bacteria growth within the tooth may be gradual yet relentless in destroying the affected area over time if left untreated – leading to progressive deterioration of both tissue as well as structures surrounding it.

Poor tooth hygiene can lead to cavities, which if left untreated become deeper and more serious. Eventually the infection may reach into the pulp of your teeth where a root canal intervention is required for effective treatment. Regular dental checkups are recommended; early detection gives a better chance of preventing complications due to infection progression.

Symptoms of tooth pulp damage or disease

A diseased tooth pulp may cause inflammation or infection. The symptoms of a damaged or diseased tooth pulp may include:

• unprovoked or spontaneous pain
• sensitivity to hot and cold drinks and foods
• pain when biting or chewing
• loosening of the tooth
• swelling of the gum near the affected tooth
• oozing of pus surrounding the affected tooth
• facial swelling.

Sometimes, tooth pulp may become damaged or diseased without presenting any symptoms. In these cases, the problem is usually diagnosed by special tests or x-rays during a dental check-up or treatment for other dental concerns.

Diagnosis of tooth pulp problems

Our root canal dentist will listen to your symptoms, examine your teeth and perform other special investigations including taking x-rays. These x-rays also help the dentist to plan for the root canal treatment by revealing the number, size and curvature and depth of the roots, and showing how complicated the procedure may be.

Endodontic treatment offers a cost-effective solution to addressing issues with damaged teeth. Its affordability in comparison to having the tooth removed and replaced with an artificial one makes it a reliable option when considering dental care options. Contact us to understand more about this treatment method.