Endodontic treatment (also called Root Canal Treament) is used to save a tooth that has been damaged due to decay, trauma or injury. Endodontic treatment is generally a two appointment procedure, which involves removing the infected pulp (nerve) tissue from inside the tooth and shaping the pulp chamber in the first appointment, and placing a medicine inside the pulp chamber to allow for the infection to resolve.
During this appointment, the tooth will be numb to avoid any pain. Once there is signs that the infection has resolved, the pulp chamber can be filled up to prevent re-infection. It is generally recommended that a crown be placed over a root treated tooth, to ensure that they are structurally reinforced. Infection or inflammation of the pulp and surround tissues can present as intense pain to temperature, pain when biting on the tooth, pain which wakes you at night, or generalised aching on the side of the face.
Occasionally, the tooth may be completely asymptomatic or may refer pain to other teeth or facial structure (headache, ear ache etc). The pulp can become inflamed through trauma, deep dental caries, severe wear or gum disease. Once the inflammation has become irreversible, the tooth requires treatment in the form of a root canal or an extraction. Pulp infection that is left untreated, can spread systemically and cause more serious life threatening problems.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
If you would like any more information on Endodontic treatment, please contact our friendly staff on (07) 3366 1737. Endodontic Treatment (Root Canal Treatment)