Root canal treatment is a common endodontic procedure that is performed to eradicate bacteria from an infected root canal, and prevent the possibility of reinfection. It safeguards the thoroughly cleaned tooth against future bacterial intrusion. At Kong Dental Surgery, we prioritise restoration of the original tooth rather than the removal of the tooth. This is where root canal treatment comes in. 

This procedure is typically necessary when there is an alteration in tooth structure due to factors such as a cracked tooth resulting from injury or genetic factors, tooth decay, the presence of a deep cavity, or complications arising from a prior dental filling.

What is a Root Canal? 

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat an infected or damaged tooth. It involves removing the pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Once the pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed.

The term “root canal” also refers to the natural cavity within the centre of the tooth where the pulp is located. This area houses the nerves and blood vessels of the tooth. 

After a root canal procedure, the tooth may require a crown or other restoration to protect and strengthen it, as a tooth that has undergone a root canal treatment can become brittle over time.

Root canal procedures are performed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth, allowing it to remain in the mouth rather than being extracted. This helps maintain the natural bite and appearance of the smile.

There are many benefits to having a root canal treatment. The primary benefit is that you get to retain your original tooth/teeth. 

• Prevents removal of your original tooth: Saving your original tooth is always the best option. Despite natural replacement alternatives like dental implants, nothing will look, feel and function like your original teeth. 
• Gets rid of pain: Root canal treatment gets rid of the inflammation that has infected the pulp of your tooth, thus effectively getting rid of any pain you might be feeling. 
• Reduces infection in the mouth: Root canal treatment removes any abscess that you might have in your mouth. This reduces the risk of infection. 
• Smile confidently with visually appealing results: Root canal treatment with the right dentists means that you are able to smile more confidently without any pain. 
• Cost-effective in the long run: Unlike tooth extractions that leave a missing gap in your mouth that can cause problems down the road, root canal treatment restores your original tooth and prevents the need for further costly dental procedures in the long-run.  

Do I Need Root Canal Treatment?

You might require root canal treatment if you are experiencing the following signs and symptoms: 

• Pain in your tooth: If your root canal pulp has been infected, you might be experiencing continuous extreme pain. The pain might not go away and can affect your day-to-day activities. 
• Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold food or drinks: One of the first signs that you might require a root canal treatment is the difficulty at consuming certain food or drinks that are hot or cold (e.g. ice cream, hot coffee, iced milo, etc). Prolonged inability to consume hot or cold items can be very off-putting and uncomfortable. 
• Swollen gums: In some cases, the pain from your swollen gums might be more intense than the pain from your teeth. 
• Loose or moving teeth: If treatment is not sought as soon as possible, it is possible for your teeth to fall out. 

Tooth discoloration: Your teeth might turn darker with a greyish-black colouring. This is often the sign of a dying pulp that will need root canal treatment.

Root canal treatment at Kong Dental Surgery is straightforward and fuss-free. It involves 3 main stages: 

Stage 1: Consultation and Examination

Your dentist will perform an X-ray of the root of your tooth. This is followed by a pulp vitality test. These assessments and tests are to determine if you require a root canal treatment. The test will also evaluate how severe your condition is so that your dentist is able to know how extensive the procedure will be. 

Stage 2: Root Canal Treatment 

Once the dentist has determined that you require root canal treatment and you have decided on proceeding with the procedure, your root canal treatment will commence. 

Administration of Anaesthetic for Pain Relief 

Before the root canal treatment is done, your tooth will be numbed completely with a local anaesthetic. The local anaesthetic ensures that you do not feel any pain during the entire procedure. 

You may also choose to be placed under prior sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the recommendation of the dentist and the treatment plan agreed upon. 

Isolation of Tooth 

Your tooth will be isolated from the rest of your mouth using a soft and stretchable dental dam. The dental dam protects your mouth from the instruments and chemicals used during the procedure. It also helps keep your tooth clean and dry so that your root canal treatment has an increased rate of success. 

Removal of Infected Pulp

A small opening is made on your tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals once the anaesthetic has taken effect. This process exposes the infected pulp of your tooth. Disinfecting fluids is introduced to kill any bacteria and rinse out debris present around and in your tooth. Once this has been done, the infected tissue is cleared from within the tooth through the use of root canal files. 

Temporary Filling Placement 

Your root canal is dressed with a temporary filling. This temporary filling is left to settle for 1 to 2 weeks before the final root canal filling is placed. 

Root Canal Filling 

A permanent root canal filling is placed to seal your root canal once your tooth is ready and free from symptoms. It is common for an X-ray to be taken to ensure that the root canal filling is placed in the precise location in the root canal before it is sealed in. 

Placement of Fillings, Onlays or Crowns

A well-sealed restoration that can come in the form of a filling (which is also known as an inlay or crown) will be placed over your tooth. A supporting post will be placed within your tooth to stabilise the permanent crown on top of the treated tooth. This protects your tooth from further infection and damage. It also improves the overall function of your tooth.Placement of the filling should be done as soon as possible as this can affect the success rates of your root canal treatment. 

Stage 3: Post-Operative Care

The recovery period of a root canal treatment usually takes about 1 week. It is normal to feel sore around your jaw area following treatment.

A root canal treatment usually takes around 30 minutes to 60 minutes complete. However, if your condition is more severe or complex, it might require more time and even a second appointment if a crown has been recommended.

To find out more about our root canal treatment services or book an appointment with us, you can contact us at the dental clinic that is nearest to your location.