Root Canal

Sometimes following dental trauma or large decay the tooth can become infected and die. This tooth is usually darker in color, painful lasting for hours, and the gums around the tooth may be swollen with a yellow pus liquid. The only option to keep this tooth is to perform root canal or alternatively to have the tooth removed.

Root canal or Endodontic treatment refers to removing and disinfecting the inside of the tooth which houses the infected tooth nerve. In this way the tooth is able to be saved, used and remains pain-free. Root canal usually involves 3 visits of approximately one hour each. The procedure is usually not painful (most people fall asleep!) as the tooth is numbed prior working on it. At the completion of root canal the remaining tooth structure is often weak and brittle so consideration of a Crown is always recommended for long-term strength.

Please note any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.