Root Canal Treatment Stafford, UK

First we have to remove the bacteria from inside the tooth, then clean out the infected pulp chamber. This can either be accomplished by removing the bacteria from your root canal system (root canals) or removing the tooth (extraction).

But removing the tooth usually isn't recommended as it's better not to remove too many of your natural teeth. After the bacteria have been removed and the root canal is filled, the tooth is sealed with a filling or a crown. In most cases, the inflamed tissue near your tooth will heal naturally.

Before having root canal treatment, you'll usually be given a local anaesthetic This means the procedure should be painless and no more unpleasant than having a filling.

Root canal treatment is quite successful. In about 9 out of 10 cases a tooth can survive for up to 10 years after its had a root canal treatment.

Usually local anaesthetic is used during the procedure, and every step is taken to ensure you are comfortable while the procedure is carried out.

You will be informed of the possibility of discomfort in the area following your treatment. This discomfort is usually minor, and doesn't last long.

It's important to take care of your teeth when recovering from a root canal treatment. You should avoid biting hard foods until your treatment has been completed.

After your final treatment your restored tooth should no longer be painful, although it might feel sensitive for a few more days. You can use over-the-counter medications, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin, to relieve any discomfort you have. If you still have pain or discomfort after using painkillers, you should see your dentist.

Most cases of tooth decay can be prevented by keeping your teeth clean, not eating too much sug­ary food, giving up smoking if you do, and finding out more about dental health, including dental hygiene.

Root canal treatment is often successful at saving the tooth, and clearing the infection.About 9 out of 10 root canal-treated teeth survive for about 8 to 10 years.

After root canal treatment, having a crown fitted to the treated tooth is important for improving tooth longevity. Keep your teeth clean and your treated tooth should survive a long time. The survival of your tooth depends a number of factors, such as:

- how much of your natural tooth remains

- how well you keep your teeth clean by brushing and flossing

- the biting forces that are applied to the tooth

But if an infection returns, the root canal treatment may be repeated.Or if treatment has already taken place to a high standard and an infection remains, a small procedure to remove the root tip may be carried out to cure the infection.

A crown is a covering that completely covers a real tooth. It might be necessary for you to have a crown after a root canal treatment to prevent your tooth from fracturing.

Crowns can be either made from metal or porcelain (either one or both), a ceramic material or powdered glass.

The dentist will reduce your tooth and use the new crown to replace what's been removed. A mould of your tooth will then be taken to ensure the new crown is the right shape, size, and fits your teeth accurately.

When fitting the crown to the tooth, cement will be used. If there's only a small portion of tooth left after the root canal treatment, a post can be cemented in place and used to help keep it in place.