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Root Canal Therapy at Fletcher Dental Care

Root Canal Therapy

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At Fletcher Dental Care, we understand how uncomfortable tooth pain can be, and we’re here to help you find relief through advanced dental treatments. One of the most effective solutions for saving a severely damaged or infected tooth is Root Canal Therapy. This procedure is designed to eliminate pain and restore the health of your tooth, allowing you to keep your natural smile intact.

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root Canal Therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, involves the removal of infected or damaged tissue from inside the tooth. The tooth’s interior consists of soft tissue called the pulp, which can become inflamed or infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, or trauma. If left untreated, this can lead to severe pain and even tooth loss.

The therapy involves carefully removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further infection. A restoration such as a crown may be placed on the tooth after the procedure to protect it and restore its function.

When is Root Canal Therapy Needed?

Root Canal Therapy may be necessary when:

  • You experience persistent tooth pain or sensitivity to heat or cold.
  • Your tooth becomes discoloured or darker than usual.
  • There’s swelling, tenderness, or a recurring pimple on the gums near the affected tooth.
  • You’ve sustained significant damage or injury to a tooth that has affected the pulp.

By addressing these symptoms early, Root Canal Therapy can prevent the need for tooth extraction and maintain your natural tooth structure.

The Root Canal Procedure

At Fletcher Dental Care, we ensure that Root Canal Therapy is as comfortable and efficient as possible:

Diagnosis

We start with a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the extent of the infection or damage.

Anaesthesia

Local anaesthesia is used to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area, ensuring you experience little to no discomfort during the procedure.

Pulp Removal

We make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed.

Cleaning and Shaping

The empty canals are cleaned, disinfected, and shaped to allow for filling.

Filling and Sealing

The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent reinfection.

Restoration

A crown or filling may be placed to restore the tooth’s strength and functionality.

Why Choose Root Canal Therapy?

Root Canal Therapy is a highly effective procedure to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. Keeping your natural tooth is always the best option because it helps maintain the structure of your jaw and overall oral health. The procedure has a high success rate, and many teeth treated with root canals can last a lifetime with proper care.

Aftercare and Recovery

After Root Canal Therapy, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. We recommend avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until the final restoration (such as a crown) is placed. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and attending regular check-ups will help ensure the success of the treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Root Canal Therapy painful?
No, Root Canal Therapy is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. We use local anaesthesia to numb the area, and most patients report feeling little to no pain during the procedure.
The length of the procedure varies depending on the complexity of the case but generally takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Some root canals may require multiple visits to complete.
While it’s rare, a tooth that has had a root canal can become re-infected if the filling or crown fails, if there is a crack in the tooth, or if new decay develops. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene are key to preventing this.
If left untreated, the infection in the tooth can spread to surrounding tissues, causing more severe pain, abscess formation, and possible tooth loss. In some cases, the infection can even spread to other areas of the body.
After Root Canal Therapy, your tooth will be restored with a filling or crown. While it may not be as strong as a completely healthy tooth, the restoration will help it function normally and last for many years with proper care.
It’s important to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly. Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored and consider wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night.

Book Your Appointment Today!

Let our caring team make your next visit effortless, and feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns—we’re here to support you every step of the way.

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