Root Canals

is a treatment sequence for the infected tissue of a tooth which results in the elimination of infection and the protection of the decontaminated tooth from future microbial invasion.

What Does Root Canal Therapy involve?

• 1st stage of treatment: Following a thorough assessment, the dentist will start with a local anaesthetic to numb the area. At the first appointment may simply “settle the tooth” by dressing the pulp with a special antibiotic and anti-inflammatory dressing. Otherwise special instruments called files to simultaneously remove the infected and inflamed tissue and widen the canals in each of the roots.
• 2nd Stage of Treatment: Cleaning and shaping the root canal/s. The aim is to remove bacteria and organic debris within the root canal system.
• 3rd stage of treatment: Once the roots have been cleaned and shaped, they are then filled with rubber-based filling material. The dentist will usually take an x-ray to ensure the tooth is filled to the correct lengths.
• Final restoration: Your dentist will advise you what is best for the longevity of your tooth.