Root Canal Treatment Orpington: Save Your Tooth
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure designed to treat infection or damage within the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. When this tissue becomes inflamed or infected, it can lead to pain and complications if not treated promptly.
Why Do You Need a Root Canal?
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Common reasons for needing a root canal include:
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Severe Tooth Decay: Deep cavities can reach the pulp, leading to infection.
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Trauma: A cracked or broken tooth can expose the pulp to bacteria.
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Repeated Dental Procedures: Multiple treatments on the same tooth may increase the risk of pulp damage.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
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Look out for these symptoms:
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Persistent toothache or sensitivity to hot and cold
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Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums
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Discoloration of the tooth
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Pain when chewing or applying pressure
The Root Canal Procedure
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1 - Initial Consultation: Your dentist will examine your tooth, possibly taking X-rays to assess the extent of the infection or damage.
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2 - Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
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3 - Accessing the Pulp: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
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4 - Cleaning and Shaping: The infected pulp is removed, and the empty space is cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.
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5 - Filling the Canal: Once cleaned, the canal is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to seal it.
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6 - Restoration: A temporary filling is placed, and you may return for a crown or permanent restoration to protect and restore the tooth’s function.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
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Pain Relief: Root canal treatment alleviates the pain caused by infection and prevents it from spreading.
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Tooth Preservation: The procedure allows you to keep your natural tooth, avoiding extraction and maintaining your smile.
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Cost-Effectiveness: Saving a tooth with a root canal is often more economical than replacing it with an implant or bridge.
Aftercare and Recovery
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Post-Treatment Sensitivity: It’s normal to experience some sensitivity after the procedure, but this should gradually diminish.
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Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort.
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Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Follow your dentist’s advice on any restrictions during the healing process.
Where is Adams House Dental Practice located?
Adams House is located in Petts Wood, within a 3 minute walk from Petts Wood Railway Station. Parking is available in bays outside the practice along with a larger car park opposite the practice.
Adams House Dental Practice
215-217 Petts Wood Road
Petts Wood, Orpington
BR5 1LA
