Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is a dental procedure performed to treat infection or inflammation affecting the soft tissue inside a tooth. When the pulp becomes infected or severely inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, root canal treatment may help eliminate the infection and preserve the natural tooth.
At Purely Dental, our approach focuses on accurate diagnosis, careful treatment planning, patient comfort, and appropriate restoration of the treated tooth.
A root canal may be recommended when the dental pulp has been irreversibly damaged or infected. Common causes include:
Some teeth requiring root canal treatment may not cause significant pain, which is why a proper dental examination is important when symptoms or clinical findings suggest an underlying problem.
Depending on the condition of the tooth, symptoms may include:
However, symptoms can vary considerably, and only a dental examination can determine whether root canal treatment is appropriate.
During root canal treatment, the infected or inflamed pulp tissue is carefully removed from inside the tooth. The root canals are then cleaned, shaped, and disinfected before being sealed.
The general treatment process may involve:
1. Diagnosis & Examination
The tooth is clinically examined and appropriate dental imaging may be taken to understand the condition.
2. Accessing the Tooth
A small opening is created to access the internal pulp chamber and root canals.
3. Cleaning & Shaping
The infected or damaged tissue is removed and the root canal system is carefully cleaned and shaped.
4. Disinfection
The canals are disinfected to help eliminate microorganisms and prepare the tooth for sealing.
5. Sealing the Canals
The cleaned canals are filled and sealed to help prevent further infection.
6. Final Restoration
Depending on the condition and remaining tooth structure, the tooth may require a permanent filling, crown, or another appropriate restoration to restore function and protect it.
Sometimes a tooth that has previously undergone root canal treatment may develop persistent or recurring infection or other complications. In selected cases, re-root canal treatment may be considered.
Re-root canal treatment involves reassessing the previously treated tooth, identifying possible causes of persistent infection or treatment failure, removing the existing root canal filling material where appropriate, cleaning and disinfecting the canals again, and resealing them.
The suitability of re-root canal treatment depends on factors such as the condition of the tooth, previous treatment, restorability, and the underlying cause of the problem.
When a tooth can be predictably treated and restored, preserving the natural tooth may help maintain normal chewing function and the existing relationship between neighbouring teeth.
At Purely Dental, we evaluate each tooth individually and discuss appropriate alternatives when a tooth cannot be predictably preserved.
Modern techniques and appropriate local anaesthesia can make root canal treatment considerably more comfortable than many patients expect. Our dental team focuses on explaining each stage of treatment and helping patients feel informed throughout the process.
If you are experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, or swelling, schedule a consultation with Purely Dental for a comprehensive dental evaluation.
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