Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is an essential procedure in dental care that aims to save teeth that might otherwise need to be extracted. At Melrose Dental Studio, we specialise in root canal therapy, using advanced techniques and equipment to ensure the best outcomes with minimal discomfort.

What is a root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment, or endodontic therapy, involves removing the infected pulp from the inside of a tooth. The pulp has nerves and blood vessels and can become infected through deep decay, recurrent dental procedures, or a crack or chip in the tooth. The procedure helps save the tooth while eliminating pain and infection.

Why would someone need a root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is advised when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed. Severe decay, cracks, chips, or injuries to the tooth can cause this.

Symptoms might include:

• Pain.
• Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold.
• Tenderness to touch and chewing.
• Discolouration of the tooth.
• Swelling in nearby gums.
• If this condition is left untreated, it can lead to severe pain and abscesses.

What exactly happens during the treatment?

During a root canal treatment at Melrose Dental Studio, you can expect the following steps:

1. Anaesthesia: The area around the tooth is numbed with local anaesthesia to guarantee comfort throughout the procedure.
2. Pulp Removal: The infected or inflamed pulp is removed by making a small opening in the tooth’s crown.
3. Cleaning and Shaping: After removing the pulp, the root canal is cleaned and shaped to prepare it for filling.
4. Filling the Canal: The cleaned and shaped canal is then filled with a biocompatible substance, typically a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha. Afterwards, the opening is sealed with a temporary filling.
5. Restoration: After root canal therapy, the tooth needs to be restored with a crown or a filling to protect and restore it to its original function.

Is there anything I should do to protect my root canal?

After a root canal treatment, it’s important to protect the newly treated tooth. Here are some dietary tips: 

• Avoid Hard Foods: Keep away from hard foods like nuts and candies that could fracture the tooth.
• Chew on the Opposite Side: While the permanent restoration is being prepared, it’s advisable to chew food on the opposite side of your mouth.
• Avoid Sticky Foods: Foods like chewing gum and caramel may dislodge temporary fillings.
• Eat Soft Foods: Soft foods like yoghurt, eggs, and soft fruits are ideal as they require minimal chewing. 

Root canal treatment is a great way to save a tooth and reduce pain. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to a pain-free smile.