Root Canal Treatment

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Root Canal Treatment

A root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to remove infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth.

The inner pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, which can become infected due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. Root canal therapy eliminates infection, relieves pain, and helps save your natural tooth.

Modern root canal treatment is safe, effective, and typically no more uncomfortable than a routine filling.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

Common symptoms that indicate the need for root canal treatment include:

• Severe or persistent toothache.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lasts.
• Pain when biting or chewing.
• Swollen or tender gums.
• Tooth discolouration.
• Dental abscess or gum boil.

Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?

Root canal treatment is virtually painless thanks to modern anaesthesia and advanced techniques. Most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure and mild sensitivity afterwards.

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Root Canal Treatment Procedure Step-by-Step:

Root canal treatment is usually completed in one or two visits and includes:

Diagnosis and X-Rays
The dentist examines the tooth and confirms infection using digital imaging.
Local Anaesthesia
The tooth and surrounding area are numbed to ensure a pain-free procedure.
Removal of Infected Pulp
Infected tissue is carefully removed from the root canals.
Cleaning and Disinfection
The canals are thoroughly cleaned and shaped to eliminate bacteria.
Filling and Sealing
The canals are sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent reinfection.
Final Restoration
A dental filling or crown is placed to restore strength and function.

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment:

Immediate pain relief.
Eliminates infection.
Saves the natural tooth.
Prevent the spread of bacteria.
Restores chewing and biting ability.
Long-lasting results.

Recovery After Root Canal Treatment:

Mild tenderness for a few days is normal.
Most patients return to normal activities within 24 hours.
Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until fully restored.
Maintain good oral hygiene and attend follow-up visits.

Root Canal Treatment vs Tooth Extraction:

Saving your natural tooth with root canal therapy helps:

Maintain proper bite alignment.
Preserve jawbone health.
Prevent shifting of nearby teeth.
Avoid more complex and costly treatments.

Whenever possible, root canal treatment is preferred over extraction.

What our patients say

“I was referred here after my previous dentist in Wellington stopped Denplan, and I’m really glad I made the switch. Anthony was excellent — friendly, professional, and reassuring throughout. The hygienist (sorry I’ve forgotten her name!) was brilliant too —…”