A gentle approach to root canal therapy in Charlestown, NSW.
Just the mention of the words “root canal” is enough to bring up negative feelings for many people. It is essential, however, to recognise that root canals are a standard procedure that can save a diseased tooth from needing an extraction or stop a root infection from spreading to other teeth or even other parts of the body.
Many of the negative feelings about root canal treatment come from the fact that many people associate them with pain. But the pain prior to the procedure is far worse than the treatment.
Your dentist in Charlestown, NSW provides root canal treatment that takes away pain and restores bite function.
If you have not visited the dentist in a while, or if you have tooth sensitivity, we welcome your call to arrange a check-up.
Also, you can continue reading to learn more about root infections and root canal therapy below.
When is root canal therapy necessary?
Root canal therapy eliminates infection and tooth pain that has formed inside the root of the tooth. It restores the tooth to better health.
Often, a tooth infection makes itself known by causing a toothache that goes from moderate to awful in a matter of days or hours. Other times, it can be asymptomatic, and a dental x-ray highlights the issue. Typically, if a root infection does not cause pain, it is because the infection has just started, or the root is dead.
Other signs of a root infection include:
- Swelling or inflammation at the site
- Sensitivity to temperature
- Discolouration in the area of the affected tooth
- A bump on the gums
- Pain that gets worse when biting down
Bacteria or trauma may lead to root infection—even past trauma.
Will the treatment hurt?
Patients who come to us in pain are already stressed, and we understand and empathise. Rest assured that your Charlestown dentist’s goal is to eliminate your pain and get you feeling comfortable again. Before beginning treatment, we numb the ache so that you won’t feel anything during your therapy.
Using the latest in dental technology, our dentist removes the bacteria from the root via a tiny hole made in the tooth. Small hand instruments and rotary tools clean the canals and taper them so a filler can be placed in the canal. This filler will keep bacteria from returning to the area. Once the area is thoroughly cleaned and filled, we seal it for added protection.
In a week or two, you return to our dental clinic for a dental crown or permanent filling—a dental crown if the treated tooth is left vulnerable to fracture.
A tooth crown is a tooth-shaped jacket hollowed out to fit over your treated tooth. It matches your other teeth in shape and colour.
How do I care for my tooth after therapy?
The majority of your pain leaves following this tooth-saving treatment, although the site may be mildly sore for a few days. Typically, pain relievers from shops take care of this discomfort. However, many patients report not needing pain killers following treatment.
We typically suggest a tooth crown to protect the tooth if it is brittle and likely to fracture following root and pulp removal. Your dentist provides the crown after your initial appointment—and after the tooth has had a chance to heal fully.
A crown is a cap that goes over your tooth to the gumline, always shaped like your other teeth.
In some cases—if the tooth is severely damaged or you prefer not to save it—you or your dentist may opt for a dental extraction instead of root canal therapy. It’s worth noting that if your tooth cannot be saved, it may be because you didn’t seek timely treatment for your toothache, opting instead to self-treat with pain relievers.
If you’re having a tooth extracted, you can count on a gentle Charlestown dentist and caring team overseeing the process. We make sure you’re relaxed and that the area is numb before beginning treatment.
Pulling the tooth is a gentle and straightforward process, and we will provide all aftercare instructions, which include recommendations not to smoke or drink through a straw.
While you may experience mild soreness following a tooth extraction, this typically lasts only a day or two, and pain relievers purchased in shops generally are all you’ll need to restore your comfort.
After the area heals, you can consider tooth replacement options to restore your smile and your bite.
We offer dental bridges and dental implants in Charlestown, NSW. Your dentist will help you decide on the best option for your smile goals, lifestyle and budget.
Is a root infection a dental emergency?
At Charlestown Dental Care, we consider all infections dental emergencies. Infections not only cause pain, but they can also spread to surrounding teeth or even to other parts of the body.
If you have a toothache, we always want to hear from you as soon as possible. The sooner we rid your tooth of infection, the better it is for your overall wellness and well-being.
Too often, people attempt to self-treat with pain relievers or self-diagnose, believing that if they don’t have a specific symptom than they don’t have an infection—or if they don’t have a blister on their gums that they do not need root canal treatment. However, you can have a serious infection with few symptoms and a root infection without the bump or blister on your gums.
Remember, a toothache or ongoing oral change is a sign that you need to see the dentist.
How can I prevent future root infections?
The first rule for a lifetime of healthy teeth is regular dental visits, which have been shown to lower your risks for cavities, root infections and periodontal disease.
Your dentist can detect oral health issues on exam before they become ongoing problems in the future. Additionally, teeth cleanings remove the very ingredients that lead to cavities and dental emergencies.
Between dental visits, it’s crucial to brush and floss regularly.
If your tooth has suffered a trauma, even if you don’t feel much pain right away, it is important to mention it to your dentist. The roots may be damaged or exposed, which can lead to root infection in the future.
You also want to wear a nightguard if you grind and clench your teeth (bruxism). Your dentist in Charlestown can diagnose bruxism and create this nightguard to fit your smile. A nightguard gently separates your upper and lower teeth while you sleep.
Untreated bruxism can lead to enamel wear, fractures, cavities, infections and tooth loss.
If you play sports, it is also critical to wear your mouthguard.
We Invite You to Contact Your Dentist in Charlestown, NSW
At our clinic, we prioritise emergencies and strive to treat them as quickly as possible. Dental pain is never normal, so if you are uncomfortable, we would like to get you back on track to good oral health and a comfortable smile. We invite you to call our Charlestown, NSW dental surgery if you think you might need a root canal.
