Root canal treatment is a standard dental procedure used to treat infections and inflammation in a tooth's pulp (nerve). There are three main types of root canal treatment: traditional root canal treatment, periradicular surgery, and regenerative root canal treatment. Each has its own set of problems, and it's essential to understand the risks associated with each type.
Traditional root canal treatment involves the removal of infected or inflamed pulp from the tooth, cleaning and shaping the root canal and filling it with a dental material. One of the main problems associated with this type of treatment is the risk of reinfection. If the filling material or sealing is compromised, bacteria can re-enter the tooth and cause another infection. This risk is minimised if you seek the care of a root canal specialist (endodontist).
Periradicular surgery is a more advanced form of traditional root canal treatment, using magnification and specialised instruments to remove infected or inflamed tissue. This type of treatment can help reduce the risk of reinfection. However, it's still possible for bacteria to enter the tooth if the seal is compromised. This risk is minimised if you seek the care of a root canal specialist (endodontist).
Regenerative root canal treatment is a newer treatment that aims to restore the pulp tissue and regenerate new, healthy tissue in the tooth. While this type of treatment is promising, it tends to be carried out by root canal specialists. This is because they are the ones to carry out this treatment that aims to keep the tooth alive. For this to be possible, you must consult a specialist as soon as you start experiencing any symptoms (pain/sensitivity to hot and cold etc.).
Another problem is the risk of root fractures. The removal of the pulp tissue can weaken the tooth, making it more susceptible to fracture. A crown is usually needed to help strengthen the tooth and prevent further damage.
An allergy to the materials used in the filling is a rare occurrence, but it's essential to be aware of the potential risk.
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A root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat infections or inflammation in a tooth's pulp (nerve).
Some signs that you may need a root canal treatment include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, discolouration of the tooth, or swelling in the gum around the affected tooth.
In the hands of a root canal specialist, most patients report little to no pain during the root canal procedure, thanks to local anaesthesia. Some may experience mild discomfort or soreness afterwards, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
There are different types of root canal treatment, including traditional root canal treatment, microsurgical root canal treatment, and regenerative root canal treatment.
The length of a root canal treatment can vary depending on the infection's severity and the tooth's complexity. In general, the procedure can take anywhere from one to three hours.
The cost of a root canal treatment can vary depending on various factors, including the tooth's location, the infection's severity, and the type of treatment needed. However, in most circumstances, root canal treatments are cheaper than dental implants.
Most patients can return to work or normal activities immediately after a root canal treatment. However, some may experience mild discomfort or soreness.
Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after a root canal treatment. However, some may experience mild discomfort or soreness for a few days.
Root canal treatments are generally very successful, with a success rate of over 90% in the hands of a root canal specialist. However, there is always a small risk of complications, such as reinfection or root fractures.
In most cases, a crown or other restoration will be necessary after a root canal treatment to help strengthen and protect the tooth. Your dentist will discuss your options with you and recommend the best course of treatment.
