How is the Assessment Made?
We base our root canal treatment on various factors. A diagnosis will be made based on your history of symptoms, a thorough clinical examination of your teeth and dental X-ray(s). A consultation is therefore recommended in order to correctly diagnose the source of pain and to discuss the treatment plan and treatment options suitable for your needs.
Root canal treatments can generally be carried out in one visit but on some occasions, a second appointment is required. Treatments are usually 2 hours long and every effort is made to make sure you are comfortable during the treatment. You may want to bring your own portable audio system such as an iPod to listen during the treatment session (s).
How the Treatment is Carried Out
Root canal treatment is routinely carried out under local anaesthetic; however, sedation can be arranged if required. A thin plastic sheet called rubber dam (which is held on with a metal clamp) is placed over your tooth to separate it from the rest of your mouth.
This helps to keep the tooth dry and to stop bacteria from your saliva getting into the root being treated. The rubber dam also protects your throat during the treatment. Most patients find the rubber dam quite comfortable.
Initially, the nerve space of the tooth is accessed through a small opening in the biting surface of the tooth (even if the tooth is covered by a crown or a bridge). With the aid of the microscope and a series of fine files canal(s) are located. Subsequently, the space in your canal(s) created by cleaning out the pulp will be filled using a rubber-like substance called gutta percha.
This permanent root filling will be sealed with a temporary top dressing, ready for your dentist to place a new filling; however, sometimes a permanent top dressing is placed if requested by your referring dentist. We recommend that the molars and sometimes premolars should be covered by a crown following the root canal treatment if they are not already done so.
At The Perfect Smile, we offer various solutions to help you. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, contact us today. We also offer an initial free consultation so we can get a better understanding of your situation.
Medically reviewed & updated on September 7, 2019
