Root canal treatment (Endodontics)
We understand that a root canal procedure may seem intimating. That’s why, at Art of Dental Care in Chester, our team take great care in ensuring your experience is as relaxed, comfortable and pain-free as possible.
A root canal treatment, or Endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure used to save a damaged or infected tooth.
This safe procedure involves removing the damaged or infected tissue, cleaning the root canals, shaping them and filling them with biocompatible material.
Our Endodontist will then seal the tooth with an onlay/crown or filling to restore its appearance and function.
Root canal treatment is usually performed under local anaesthesia and is an effective way to save a tooth from extraction, while also relieving pain
Common reasons for root canal treatment
Common reasons that our patients need root canal treatment include trauma to the tooth, deep cavities, fractures or cracks in the tooth.
The symptoms of a damaged or infected tooth may include sensitivity to heat and cold, persistent pain, discoloration and/or swelling.
At Art of Dental Care Chester, our experienced Endodontist uses a microscope to improve the visibility of a complex root canal system, magnifying it by more than 20 times.
We only use top-of-the-range equipment to ensure your oral health is cared for to the highest possible standard.
What procedure is used for root canal treatment?
The first step a dentist will take is apply an anaesthetic or sedative. This numbing sensation ensures patients feel pressure instead of pain. It is also standard practice to use root canal isolation.
Latex is introduced to protect the affected area from the rest of the mouth and vice versa, to avoid accidental inhalation or contamination.
The dentist will usually make an opening through the rear of a front tooth. The aim here is to remove the infected pulp down to the bottom of the tooth root and drain any abscesses. At this point, the root canals and pulp chamber are cleaned and disinfected. They are then shaped so they can be filled.
A rubbery, tapered material technically known as gutta-percha is inserted into the canals and is cemented into place. This will either be a temporary or permanent filling, depending on whether the patient needs to return or not.
Some dentists will install a metal or plastic rod within the canal to add structural support. The operation is concluded with a crown placed over the tooth. This stage is known as the restoration. The purpose of the crown is to restore the tooth’s natural appearance and shape.
Contrary to popular myth, root canal surgery can be quite comfortable for patients. Modern tech enables dentists to deliver root canal solutions quickly and painlessly. Any initial discomfort is the result of the infection and will fade once treatment begins.
The benefits of root canal treatment
There are multiple benefits associated with our root canal treatment package. If you are suffering from a painful infection, we can offer immediate pain relief.
Our treatments are cost-effective and enjoy a high success rate. Our surgery saves your natural tooth and prevents bone loss.
Root canal surgery also retains the tooth and prevents other teeth drifting into the gap and impacting your bite. This means you can still chew as you did before. A crown that simulates your original tooth will restore the function of your normal bite, both in force and sensation.
If you experience pain and think you may need root canal treatment in Chester, call our Art of Dental Care team immediately to set up an appointment.