In the past, if you had a tooth with an infected nerve, you would most likely lose that tooth. Today, with a dentist  procedure called a root canal treatment (RCT) we may save that tooth and a natural tooth that can be saved is usually a much better solution than an artificial replacement.

Inside each tooth is the nerve, which provides nutrients and the sensation to your tooth. It runs like a pipe down through the root. If bacteria enter the nerve chamber then this will kill the nerve tissues and your tooth will eventually become infected (abscessed).

Some reasons that bacteria could reach the nerve chamber:

RCT involves the removal of the infected nerve tissue and the cleaning, sterilisation and sealing of the root canal to protect it. Coates Dental advises that a Crown is then placed to protect and restore strength to the treated tooth.

The nerve is not essential to ongoing tooth function, serving mostly to detect temperature differences and changes in pressure. However, if it has become infected, it is a liability that could result in swelling, drainage, and bone loss if not addressed as soon as possible. In a root canal treatment (also known as an endodontic treatment), our dentist in Indooroopilly QLD Dr Jim Coates creates a small opening in the tooth’s crown and cleans out the pulp and nerve. The empty space is then filled in and sealed, preventing further decay to take place.

How can you tell if you might need a root canal? Here are a handful of symptoms to watch for:

• Extreme pain and sensitivity while chewing or putting pressure on the tooth.
• Internal discoloration of the tooth.
• A recurring pimple on the gums, which may indicate an abscess.
• Heightened sensitivity to temperatures (both hot and cold).
• Increased gum sensitivity and swelling.

If you exhibit any or all of these symptoms, it would be wise to contact your Coates Dental in Indooroopilly, QLD to discuss whether a root canal treatment is your best dentist solution. Root canals are highly successful in saving teeth that would otherwise be lost to decay. It helps retain full tooth functionality while minimizing ongoing care and costs.

Once a root canal is completed, the affected area receives a dental cap or filling, entirely concealing the work done so your smile retains its full, healthy appeal. It isn’t uncommon for the tooth or surrounding gums to be sensitive for a few days after the procedure but this shouldn’t prevent patients from returning to their daily routines immediately following treatment.

Basic, ongoing dental hygiene and oral protection is an easy and affordable way to prevent a root canal from ever being necessary in the first place. If you do require one though don’t hesitate to contact your best dentist Indooroopilly Coates Dental.

A root canal may be your best option for ongoing dental health. Contact Coates Dental today for a free consultation to see if this is the case!