If you’ve found out you need a root canal treatment, perhaps you aren’t too happy about it. On paper, it sounds like it could be a painful and invasive procedure - but what does it involve? And is it as ominous as it sounds? Read on to learn the ins and outs of root canal treatment in Fulham.
It’s all about endodontics
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry concerned with the inside of your teeth - specifically the dental pulp, made up of blood vessels and nerves.
The doctors carrying out your root canal treatment are specialists; they will have studied this specific discipline for around two years after their dental training.
Why do I need a root canal treatment?
We always try to avoid restorative treatments like root canals by helping you maintain your teeth and gums throughout your life. If you need this treatment, it is because the centre of your tooth has become infected.
Where does this infection come from?
When a tooth becomes infected with bacteria, it causes pain and infection. These bacteria can only find their way inside your tooth if it is exposed - by a dental cavity, injury or loose-fitting filling.
What are the symptoms?
If the inside of your tooth has become infected by bacteria, the number one symptom to look out for is pain; when you eat and drink, especially anything that’s particularly hot or cold. You might also notice that one of your teeth is loose.
As your dental pulp begins to die off, it may feel like your symptoms have disappeared. This feeling could mean the infection is starting to spread. Before long, you may notice more severe symptoms like swelling, discharge or discolouration of the affected tooth.
What will happen during my root canal treatment?
First, we will take a series of 3D scans of your mouth to give us a complete picture of the broken tooth and infection. Then, we will administer a local anaesthetic to numb the affected tooth and surrounding gum. After this, we will drill your tooth to expose and remove the infected pulp beneath before enlarging the root canals to fill them.
During your second visit, we replace the temporary filling with the permanent one to ensure your tooth doesn’t become re-infected. The majority of teeth - especially molars - will require a crown to be attached after treatment, to add strength and make it last for as long as possible.
Does root canal treatment hurt?
Although it is quite an invasive procedure that involves opening up your tooth, local anaesthetic makes many patients’ experiences relatively pain-free.
You may feel some minor pain, discomfort or sensitivity post-treatment, but over-the-counter medications should keep this at bay.
How long will it take me to recover?
The downtime for this treatment is relatively low - you should start to heal around two days after your treatment - however, it can take up to a week in some cases.
How much does a root canal treatment cost?
Depending on the extent of your infection, root canal treatment at New Smile Fulham costs between £495 to £595.
Where can I get expert root canal treatment in Fulham?
At New Smile Fulham, our skilled dentists are perfectly placed to carry out even the most complex root canal treatments. You can find us at SW6 2SY - the dentist inside Sainsbury’s.
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