What is Root Canal Treatment?
The purpose of Root Canal Treatment or endodontics is to attempt to save an infected tooth from extraction and is one of the most common dental procedures performed. This treatment is undertaken with the intension of preventing the need for a dental implant or a bridge. At the centre of the tooth there is area which contains pulp which is a collection of blood vessels and nerves. Infection of the pulp can be caused by deep decay, trauma to the tooth, cracks and chips, repeated dental procedures or grinding and clinching of teeth. Symptoms of infected pulp can be identified as swelling of the face, nocturnal pain, sensitivity to temperature (both hot and cold) or pain in the tooth and gum. If you are experiencing any of those symptoms your dentist will most likely recommend Root Canal Treatment to remove the diseased pulp in an attempt to salvage your tooth.
After removal of the diseased pulp the tooth’s root canal system is thoroughly cleaned with some special instruments and antibacterial medications and finally inside the tooth the root canals are sealed. Root Canal Treatment usually involves local anaesthesia and may be completed in one or more visits depending on the extent of the treatment required. Success rates for Root Canal Treatment are generally good and are around 90%-95%. That means the treated tooth should be able to remain in your mouth for a long time, provided that you maintain good oral hygiene and generally look after your teeth. If your tooth is not suitable for endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavourable you will be informed at the time of consultation.
What happens after the treatment?
In order to perform Root Canal Treatment, we need to make a hole in the centre of your infected tooth called access cavity. Once Root Canal Treatment has been completed, we close the access cavity with permanent filling material. Post Root Canal Treatment your tooth may become brittle and prone to fracture. To overcome that weakness, we will advise you to get a crown to prevent the treated tooth from fracturing and increase the longevity of that tooth. In some instances, a Crown maybe be advised to be done immediately after Root Canal Treatment but sometimes placement of a crown could be postponed for a while.
How much will it cost?
The cost for Root Canal Treatment will vary depending on your circumstances such as severity of damage to the infected tooth and the position of the tooth in your mouth. In general, endodontic treatment is much less expensive and less traumatic than removal of the tooth and its replacement with an artificial tooth. Please call our practice on 03 9670 9020 for assistance.
