About root canal treatment

Root canal treatment can also be referred to endodontics or endodontic treatment. It can be carried out by a dentist. But if your treatment is complex, your dentist might refer you to an endodontist: a dentist who specialises in root canal treatment.

How will I know if I need root canal treatment?

An infected tooth can be caused by deep tooth decay, cracked or chipped teeth, or trauma, which creates an opening for bacteria to enter.

Signs of infection can include:

    • Serious toothache when eating, or when applying pressure to the tooth
    • Excessively sensitive teeth
    • Darkening of a tooth
    • A small bump on the gum close to a painful tooth
    • Tender or swollen gums around the tooth

How will my dentist check for signs of infection?

If you’re experiencing symptoms related to an infection, your dentist will check for:

    • Severe tooth decay
    • Cracks in teeth
    • Broken crowns
    • Cracked or loose fillings
    • Gum disease
    • Injury to your teeth (trauma)
    • Darker teeth
    • Teeth that have had extensive orthodontic movement

Why is it called a root canal?

The visible part of your tooth is called the crown, and the part below the gum is the root. Inside the tooth is the root canal system, filled with dental pulp, which nourishes and hydrates the tooth and senses temperature.

When the pulp becomes infected, it can cause pain, especially when eating or drinking. If untreated, the pulp may die, and the infection. Root canal infections won’t go away on their own, and antibiotics cannot treat them. Your dentist will advise you on what is best for you and your smile.

Root canal treatment process

If your dentist recommends a root canal, they will examine your mouth, review your symptoms and medical history, and take x-rays to check the infection and root damage.

Treatment usually takes two appointments:

  • At your first appointment, a local anaesthetic is applied, a dental dam protects the area, infected tissue is removed and a temporary filling seals the tooth
  • At your second appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary filling, ensure the infection is gone, place a permanent filling, and a crown may be added later to protect the tooth if needed

How to avoid a root canal

You can often prevent the need for a root canal by taking care of your teeth. Regular dental health check-ups at our Portman Smile Clinic Bicester practice can help your dentist spot any problems early, like damaged fillings or crowns, before they cause infection.

Tooth decay is a common cause of root canal infections. You can keep your teeth and gums healthy by brushing and flossing daily and limiting sugary or fizzy drinks.

If you are experiencing tooth pain, contact Portman Smile Clinic Bicester today to see if you require root canal treatment.