Root canal therapy

Root canal therapy is carried out when the inner most part of the tooth (the pulp) becomes infected. If left untreated, the tooth will begin to die which could lead to the loss of the tooth.

Reasons that can cause the pulp to die include:

• Trauma, a severe knock that affects the pulp
• Decay
• Severe gum disease
• Cracks in the tooth

Symptoms can include:

• Pain, both mild or severe, constant or only when biting
• Swelling in the gum surrounding the tooth
• A spot on the gum

Dead or inflamed pulp inside the tooth is removed in order to save the tooth from extraction and eliminate any pain. The pulp is removed, the root canal is cleaned, the tooth is sterilised and shaped so that it can be completely sealed with a filling material to prevent further infection. Several appointments may need to be booked, depending on how long the infection takes to clear. A crown may be necessary to avoid the tooth fracturing in the future.