Save your smile with gentle root canal treatment
Endodontics or ‘Endo’ is often referred to as root canal treatment (RCT). It is dental treatment carried out when the nerve inside the tooth becomes inflamed, infected or if the nerve has been damaged.
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Preserve and protect your natural teeth in Far Headingly
The skill and care behind root canal treatment
Endodontics is a type of dentistry that deals with the treatment and prevention of diseases of the dental pulp and the supporting structure of the tooth.
As a treatment it isn’t easy to see what a dentist has carried out to rectify a root canal problem as the treatment is mainly inside the tooth using specialised endodontic equipment. Dentists who are skilled in root canal treatment often enjoy the intricate challenge of providing this highly skilled service.
Rooted in care, focused on your health, at our Leeds practice we blend advanced dental expertise with a holistic approach to your wellbeing. Our team is dedicated to not only preserving your smile but also ensuring your oral health supports your overall vitality.
How root canal treatment works
Root canal treatment is a safe and effective way to save a tooth that has become infected or damaged. The procedure is designed to remove the infection from deep inside the tooth, relieving any pain you may be experiencing.
The process ensures the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and sealed, helping to prevent further issues and preserve your natural smile for the long term.
Most patients find the treatment to be straightforward and feel much more comfortable once it’s complete.
Endodontic/ root canal results in Leeds
This case was referred to us for re-root canal treatment after the patient experienced shooting pain following a broken tooth. While basic root canal treatments are common, more complex cases benefit from specialists with advanced training and equipment.
The treatment took two visits. First, the tooth was accessed, cleared of old filling material, and a special dressing was placed, relieving the patient’s pain. At the second appointment, X-rays were taken to ensure the canal was clear before sealing the tooth with specialised materials.
Frequently asked questions about root canal treatment
What are endodontists?
Endodontists are dental specialists who have completed additional years of further dental education and training beyond general dental school. They possess the expertise to perform complex root canal treatments and handle more challenging cases than routine root canal treatments.
How do I know if I need root canal treatment?
Endodontists use various diagnostic techniques, including dental X-rays and dental examinations, to identify problems related to your dental pulp and the root canal system. They will evaluate the condition of the pulp, determine the extent of infection or damage, and assess the overall health of the tooth.
How long does root canal treatment take?
The root canal treatment is often split into two 45 minute appointments. The first appointment is usually required to clean out the root canal and ‘temporise’ it to ensure that it is free of infection. The second appointment allows the dentist to fill (and crown if required) the tooth.
How is the pulp removed?
Your dentist will place a rubber sheet (known as a rubber dam) around the tooth to ensure it is kept dry during treatment. This also stops you from swallowing any of the dental materials that the dentist uses.Your dentist will open your tooth through the crown (the flat part at the top) to access the soft tissue at the centre of the tooth (pulp). They will then remove any infected pulp that remains.If you have a dental abscess your dentist will be able to drain it at the same time.
How is the root cleaned & filled?
After the pulp has been removed your dentist will clean and enlarge the root canal so it can be easily filled. The root canal is usually very narrow which makes it difficult to fill.Your dentist will use a series of small files to enlarge the canals and make them a regular shape so they can be easily filled. Depending on the structure of your tooth, this part of the treatment may take up to several hours to complete and may need to be carried out over a number of visits.
Why do some root canal treatments take longer than others?
Your front incisor and canine teeth usually have a single root containing one root canal. The premolars and back molar teeth have two or three roots, each containing either one or two root canals. The more roots a tooth has, the longer the treatment will take to complete.If the treatment needs to be carried out over several sessions, your dentist may put a small amount of medication in the cleaned canal to kill any remaining bacteria. The tooth will then be sealed using a temporary filling.
How is the tooth filled?
At your final visit the temporary filling and medication within the tooth will be removed and the root canal filling will be inserted. A filling will seal the tooth and prevent re-infection.Root filled teeth are more likely to break than healthy unrestored teeth. Your dentist may suggest placing a dental crown on the tooth to protect it.In some cases a root filled tooth may darken, particularly if it has died due to an injury such as a knock to the tooth. There are several ways your dentist can treat discolouration such as whitening the tooth using teeth whitening.
Will I need antibiotics?
If you have symptoms from the infection such as a raised temperature or large swelling, you may be given antibiotics to help manage and prevent further infection.
Can I still eat and drink after a root canal?
After a root canal procedure, it’s important to avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth until a permanent crown is placed. You may need a temporary filling for a few days to protect the tooth until the final restoration is applied.
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