Endodontics

The short answer is no, there is nothing to be worried about. The minute amount of x-ray radiation any patient is exposed to is negligible and deemed within safe limits. X-rays are a vital part of the dental process and are essential for the dentist to reach the correct diagnosis and carry out the treatment to its completion.

Provided the treatment is carried out by experienced general dentists, to a high standard, there is no reason why this should be a concern. Further, we maintain a clean and hygienic environment to protect against cross-infection.

After the completion of your treatment, you need to return for a follow-up a few weeks later. It is generally recommended that the root canal treated tooth be restored or crowned depending on the case to prevent it from further fracture. This would typically be carried out by our restorative dentist. We will contact you to schedule a restorative dental appointment within a few weeks after completion of your root canal treatment. Our restorative dentist will determine what type of restoration is needed to protect your tooth. Endodontic patients rarely experience complications following routine endodontic treatment. We are always available to help if a problem arises.

Endodontic treatment, also known as a root canal treatment, is a dental procedure that involves removing infected or damaged tissue from the inside of a tooth and filling the space with a special material to prevent further infection and restore the tooth’s function.

Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels) becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, a cracked or broken tooth, or repeated dental procedures on the same tooth.

Endodontic treatment is usually performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the affected area and prevents pain. Patients may experience some discomfort after the procedure, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and usually subsides within a few days.

The length of endodontic treatment varies depending on the complexity of the case, the number of canals involved, and the patient’s individual anatomy. 

Endodontic treatment is designed to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to infection or damage. With proper care, most teeth that have undergone endodontic treatment can last for years.

After endodontic treatment, your dentist will place a temporary filling or crown to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration can be placed. You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after the procedure, but this should subside quickly.

Maintaining good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding hard or sticky foods, wearing a mouthguard during sports, and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and damage that can lead to the need for endodontic treatment.

The only alternative to endodontic treatment is to extract the affected tooth. However, extracting a tooth can lead to other dental problems and may require additional treatments such as dental implants or bridges to replace the missing tooth.