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Benefits To You:
You get to keep your own natural tooth for life instead of a gap
Why do I need a Root Canal Treatment?
Root Canal Treatment (Root Canal Filling) is needed when the pulp, commonly called "the nerve" is either inflamed, dead or infected, or is at risk of becoming so in the future. The pulp extends along small channels which are situated in the centre of the root (s) of teeth ("the root canals). The reason for the pulp being damaged maybe any of the following:
- Dental or "tooth decay"
- Large or Deep Filling
- Leakage under an old crown or filling
- Trauma (fall, accident or sports injury)
- Cracks or fracture in the teeth
Decay, left untreated, eventually gets close to and begins to irritate the nerve.
Symptoms such as hot and cold sensitivity, pain on biting and discomfort after eating sweet things are early warning signs that decay is close to the nerve of the tooth.
If these are ignored, the nerve becomes inflamed causing pain (toothache). It is always advisable to seek treatment before this starts.
In Brief, The Treatment Involves:
- Local Anaesthetic
- Rubber Dam Placement
- Measurement of the length of each root accurately with x-rays and electronic measurement devices.
- Cleaning and shaping of each root canal
- Careful placement of rubber root canal filler and sealer.
How Long Will It Take?
Root Canal Treatment is advanced dentistry and requires considerable skill and time to carry out successfully.
You must be sure you are committed to saving the tooth, as this treatment is expensive and will take from 1-2 hours depending on the number of canals.
The fee for Root Canal Treatment ranges from €400 - €700 (Tax Allowable)
Will it be painful after a visit?
Some discomfort and tenderness is possible for the following few days, especially if there was pain before the treatment commenced. Anti-inflammatory is advisable to prevent post-operative discomfort. Any persistent or severe symptoms should be reported to your dentist.
And Then?
Once the pulp has been removed, the tooth will no longer be sensitive to hot or cold. After the Root Canal has been treated, the remaining structure has to be sealed and protected, this is vital for the continued success of the tooth.
In the case of a back tooth, the tooth may not be strong enough to withstand normal chewing function and will require subsequent crowning. The fee for Crowns ranges from €600 - €900 (Tax Allowable).
A front tooth can normally be restored with a white filling and dark teeth may respond to whitening to restore a healthy smile. It may also be necessary to place a crown on front teeth.
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