Root Canals

Man smiling in dental chair

At Six Twelve Family Dental, we strive to meet your every dental need under one roof. Our experienced team gently approaches all treatments, including root canal therapy (RCT). If you need a root canal, you can feel confident that we’ll keep the procedure simple and comfortable for you.

Why Immediate Care Is Essential

RCT is the last resort to keep a diseased tooth in the mouth when the nerve becomes irreversibly inflamed or infected due to bacterial challenges or trauma. We usually recommend root canal therapy when a patient reports pain from a very large cavity or direct trauma to the tooth.

Every tooth has a bundle of nerves and blood vessels on the inside. This area can become infected from deep decay, cracks, or trauma. If your teeth have a history of extensive or deep fillings, they’re especially susceptible to infection. Root canal therapy addresses the infected area of the tooth, relieving the pain and inflammation to save the tooth from extraction.

Getting Ready for Your Procedure

During your consultation appointment, we will explain the procedure in detail, answer any questions you may have, and use diagrams to help you understand the process. We will also go through the post-operative instructions in detail. If you are extremely anxious about the procedure, we can offer sedation treatment to ensure your comfort.

older woman on couch with family

What You Can Expect During Treatment

RCT involves two main phases: disinfection and filling. In the disinfection phase, we remove bacteria, decay, and the infected nerve, then place medication to aid healing. The tooth is then closed up for a minimum of seven to 10 days.

At the second appointment, we will fill the root system inside the tooth and place a permanent filling on top. Depending on your tooth’s condition, treatment may require two to four appointments.

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, ensuring you’re comfortable. Afterwards, you may experience manageable discomfort for a few days, which can be relieved with over-the-counter pain medication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a root canal mean I have a dead tooth?

No, a root canal does not mean you have a dead tooth. During the treatment, we remove the diseased nerve from the centre of the tooth, but you still have living fibres that anchor the tooth to the rest of the jaw structure. Your body will still recognise it as your own tooth.

How long will my tooth last after the procedure?

While root canal therapy extends the lifetime of a once terminally ill tooth, it does not guarantee that the tooth will last forever. You must take good care of the treated tooth, even more so than a tooth that has never been treated. Your own tooth will always be the most comfortable inside your mouth.

Are there any alternatives to RCT?

By the time a root canal is required, the patient usually presents with pain or an unsalvageable tooth. The only alternative to root canal therapy is extraction, after which we can discuss replacement options with the patient.

Saving Your Tooth From Extraction

Contact Six Twelve Family Dental today to schedule your first appointment if you believe you need a root canal. Our friendly team will guide you through the process and ensure you receive the best possible care to protect your oral health.

* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

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