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Root Canal
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a highly effective dental procedure used to treat infections or damage in the center of a tooth, known as the pulp. If you're suffering from deep decay, trauma, or a cracked tooth, our root canal specialists are here to help. Root canal treatment is not painful and can save a tooth that might otherwise have to be removed completely.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal involves carefully removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning the area, and sealing it to prevent further issues. The pulp contains vital nerves and blood vessels, which can become inflamed due to decay or injury. By undergoing root canal treatment, you can save a tooth that might otherwise need extraction.
To understand what a root canal does, it's helpful to know the basic structure of a tooth. Your tooth consists of:
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Enamel: The hard, outer layer that protects the tooth.
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Dentin: The layer beneath the enamel.
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Pulp: The soft core of the tooth, housing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue
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Step by Step Root Canal Procedure
1. Initial Consultation and Examination
The dentist examines the affected tooth and will take X-rays to assess the extent of the infection or damage in the tooth’s pulp (the innermost part containing nerves and blood vessels). If a root canal is deemed necessary, the dentist will schedule the procedure.
2. Tooth Isolation (Using a Dental Dam)
A dental dam (a small rubber sheet) is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free from saliva during the procedure. This ensures a sterile environment and allows the dentist to work with precision.
3. Accessing the Tooth's Pulp
The dentist drills a small access hole into the crown (top) of the tooth to reach the infected or damaged pulp tissue inside the tooth’s canals.
4. Removing Infected Pulp
Using specialised instruments, the dentist removes the infected or inflamed pulp from the tooth's root canals. This step also involves cleaning and disinfecting the canals to eliminate any remaining bacteria.
5. Shaping and Cleaning the Canals
The dentist shapes and enlarges the root canals to prepare them for filling. The canals are thoroughly cleaned to prevent future infections.
6. Filling the Canals
Once the canals are clean and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material, usually gutta-percha, a rubber-like substance. This filling seals the canals and prevents bacteria from re-entering.
7. Temporary Filling
After the canals are filled, the dentist may place a temporary filling to seal the access hole. This protects the tooth until a permanent restoration (like a crown) is placed in a future appointment.
8. Final Restoration
After the root canal treatment, most teeth need a crown to restore their strength and functionality. In some cases, the dentist may perform this in the same visit, but it often requires a separate appointment. The crown is custom-made to fit the tooth and restore its appearance and function.
Root Canal Specialists
At The Dental Suite we have root canal specialists, or endodontists, that have advanced training in diagnosing and treating complex cases related to the dental pulp and root canals. Our specialists use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure a painless and efficient procedure, restoring your tooth's health and function.
When Do You Need A Root Canal?
Several common dental issues may require root canal treatment:
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Deep tooth decay that reaches the pulp
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Tooth trauma or injury that damages the inner tissues
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Cracks or chips that expose the pulp to bacteria
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Repeated dental procedures that have irritated or inflamed the pulp
Signs you may need a root canal include:
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Persistent pain while chewing or biting
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Sensitivity to hot or cold
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Swollen gums or a darker tooth
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
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Save Your Natural Tooth: A root canal preserves your original tooth, maintaining your natural bite and oral health.
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Relieve Pain: Removing the infected pulp eliminates pain, allowing you to eat and chew comfortably.
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Prevent Future Infections: The procedure seals the tooth, reducing the risk of further infection.
Root Canal Cost
Our root canal treatments are competitively priced, offering transparent costs based on the tooth type. Here's the breakdown:
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Incisor/Canine Root Canal: €450
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Premolar Root Canal: €650
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Molar Root Canal: €850
Recovery After Root Canal
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Immediate Post-Treatment: It is normal to experience some mild discomfort, tenderness, or swelling for a few days after the procedure, especially in the area surrounding the treated tooth. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen is typically recommended to manage this discomfort.
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Healing Time: Most patients can resume normal activities the day after treatment. The soreness should subside within a few days.
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Long-Term Care: Proper care, including good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding hard foods on the treated tooth, is essential to ensure the tooth remains healthy after the root canal. Once the crown is placed, the tooth will function like a natural tooth.
FAQs
1. What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure to treat infection or damage in the tooth's pulp (the innermost part containing nerves and blood vessels). The process involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and shaping the root canals, and sealing them to prevent further issues.
2. Is it painful to have a root canal?
Root canal treatments are not painful. Modern techniques and anaesthesia ensure the procedure is comfortable, and it alleviates pain caused by the infection.
3. How much does a root canal cost in Ireland?
Costs vary based on the tooth type. Here at The Dental Suite:
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Incisors/Canines: €450
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Premolars: €650
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Molars: €850
4. What is done during a root canal?
The dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the root canals, shapes them, and fills them. The tooth is then restored, usually with a crown.
5. How long does a root canal last?
With proper care, including good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, a root canal-treated tooth can last many years.
6. How long after a root canal can I eat?
It’s best to avoid eating until the numbness from the anaesthetic wears off to prevent accidental injury. Soft foods are recommended for the first day.
7. Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Most teeth require a crown after a root canal to restore strength and functionality, especially molars and premolars.