Frequently asked questions
Root Canal Therapy
What is root canal therapy?Root canal therapy is needed when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay, infection or injury. In order to save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decay are removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full function.
Does this treatment hurt?
No. In fact many of our patients even fall asleep during the procedure! When treatment goes as planned, this is usually a painless procedure performed under local anaesthesia, which should not feel much different to getting a filling done.
Would it be easier to just get the tooth removed?
Most people prefer to save their tooth because it generally will function better than an artificial tooth. Your own tooth is usually stronger and more efficient at biting and chewing. Other problems may arise as a result of losing a tooth. Nearby teeth can move out of their normal position and tilt into the space left by the missing tooth making chewing and biting difficult and leading to further decay and gum disease around the tilted teeth.
Why is it important to place an artificial crown on a tooth that has had a root canal treatment?
Usually a tooth that has had root canal treatment is at risk of fracture without the protection of an artificial crown, so one should be fitted soon after treatment.
Usually made of porcelain, the artificial crown is needed to:
- protect, strengthen and further seal the tooth
- restore normal occlusion (the way the upper and lower teeth contact each other during biting and chewing)
- restore an ideal cosmetic appearance.
