Root Canal treatments

Root Canal treatment (endodontic therapy) is the treatment of diseases of the dental pulp.

The dental pulp is a bundle of small blood vessels, nerve fibres and other cells which run through the length of the tooth root(s). The pulp tissue is delicate and can become damaged or diseased due to decay, cracks, old fillings, trauma or general wear and tear. If the dental pulp becomes inflamed or infected, it may require root canal treatment.

Disease of the dental pulp can cause swelling and pain, however, often there are no symptoms at all. In some situations, an endodontic problem may be detected on a routine x-ray before symptoms have developed.

Root Canal treatment involves the removal of the diseased dental pulp through an access created in the top of the tooth and its replacement with a biocompatible filling material. This treatment is performed under local anaesthesia and may take one or more visits to complete.

Often a crown will be required to strengthen the tooth in order to prevent future fracture (especially on back molar teeth) and to improve the appearance of the tooth.