ROOT CANAL TREATMENT (DEVITALISATION)

The Problem

When a tooth becomes badly decayed or infected, a root canal treatment procedure is required in order to preserve, repair and save the tooth. Usually the Dentist will diagnose based on the type of pain that requires a root canal or suggest this procedure upon evaluation on the Xray.

Why do I need treatment?

If a tooth is left badly decayed or infected, the gum tissue surrounding the tooth will eventually become infected and an abscess might form. This could lead to a host of health problems, including:

  • Fever
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling in the face
  • Persistent toothache
  • Inability to chew or bite

What does the treatment involve?

During a root canal procedure, the nerve and blood space from the inside of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected and sealed off. This will mean that all sensation will be lost for that particular tooth but it aims to maintain the tooth in function.

Before the procedure, our dentist will take an x-ray of the affected tooth. This allows them to have a clear idea of the damage and what is required for the procedure.

Our dentist will place a rubber dam sheet around the tooth to ensure that the tooth remains dry during the procedure. This also prevents any contamination from chemicals the dentist might be using during the procedure.

The dentist will then access the tooth at the crown level, in order to access the soft tissue (pulp) within the tooth. Any infected pulp will then be removed surgically. If there is a dental abscess, the dentist will then have to drain the abscess.

What type of anаesthetic is used?

For a root canal procedure, generally only local anаesthesia (lignocaine) is required.

How long does the procedure take?

Generally, a root canal treatment session will take around 1 hour to 1 ½ hours to complete.

After clearing out the root canal, your dentist will need to fill up the root canal. This is quite a long procedure and might take several hours.

The more roots the tooth has, the longer time it will take. Sometimes, several sessions will be required.

What to expect after the procedure? Are there aftercare steps?

Once the anaesthesia wears off, some discomfort may be present during recovery. Usually, the discomfort is mild and resolves in a few days.

Our dentist might prescribe you painkillers in order to manage the soreness and tenderness after the operation.

Do I need to take time off work?

Our dentist will generally advise you to take 1-2 days off work after a successful root canal treatment, if necessary.