Root canal therapy

“Root canal” is the term used to describe the natural cavity within the centre of the tooth. Within the root canal lies the soft area known as the pulp or pulp chamber, which contains blood vessels, connective tissues and your tooth’s nerve.  The nerve’s function is sensory, providing the sense of hot and cold.
Root canal treatment is used to resolve infections inside the tooth that has affected its nerve tissue (dental pulp) through injury or decay.
SIGNS OF INFECTION OR ABSCESS

• Pain – ranging from a dull ache to severe pain with or without localized tenderness when biting
• In some cases your tooth may darken in colour indicating the tooth has died or is dying
• Swelling of the face, head or neck
• Presence of pus inside the mouth indicating a possible abscess
• Swelling of the tissue surrounding the tooth

Why do I need root canal treatment?
If the pulp becomes infected the contamination may spread through the root canal system of the tooth and also to other areas of the face, head and neck. If untreated this may then lead to an abscess. If root canal treatment is not carried out, the infection will spread and the tooth may need to be removed. The root canal treatment will stop an infection spreading and will also relieve your toothache and promote healing.
Root canal treatment is generally no more painful than having a filling but it is a skilled treatment and may take up to three appointments depending on the severity of the infection.