Generally, people may get a tooth infection once in their lifetime. However, certain factors, such as poor oral hygiene and food choices, can increase the risk of tooth infection.
The dental pulp gets infected when harmful bacteria enter the tooth through a little hole or cavity. It results in mild to extreme pain. Yet, some people experience no pain at all. But the tooth infection can spread to other areas of your body and become life-threatening if you are not careful.
In this article, you’ll learn what a root canal is, when it is needed, and more about this treatment.
What is a Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is quite a standard dental procedure used to treat infection and relieve a severe toothache caused by the infected tooth canal. During the root canal procedure, the dentist cleans the infected dental pulp and disinfects the area. After that, they seal the treated tooth with a filling or a crown.
It would help if you remembered that extreme toothache is not the first symptom of root canal infection. However, it is the most common one. The earliest signs of root canal infection are slight tooth discolouration, gum inflammation, and sensitivity, gradually worsening. Once the decay reaches the tooth’s innermost layer, the dental pulp causes extreme pain.
When is Root Canal Needed?
You require a root canal if you have the following:
- Deep tooth decay
- Gum infection or Periodontitis
- Trauma or injury to the tooth
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Large cavities in the tooth
Who Performs Root Canal Treatment?
A general dentist or a root canal specialist called an endodontist performs the root canal treatment. Usually, a general dentist performs a root canal if the infected tooth is at the front and has fewer roots. But if the procedure is complex and the infected tooth has multiple cores, the endodontist will complete the treatment.
Also, keep in mind that the cost of treatment will increase if the endodontist performs the root canal treatment.
Do Root Canals hurt?
Contrary to popular belief, root canal treatment is not that painful. But you’ll find immediate relief from the pain once the dentist removes the infected root canal. The pain of an infected tooth is far greater than the discomfort experienced during the procedure.
Today, dentists give anesthesia to patients to make the treatment as painless as possible. However, you may experience mild discomfort or soreness for a few days after the treatment. But you need to call your dentist immediately if you’re experiencing throbbing pain after the root canal treatment.
How Long does it Take to Recover?
If you follow your dentist’s instructions carefully, root canal recovery takes less than a week. You may go through mild discomfort for a few days, but an over-the-counter painkiller can treat it. After you’ve recovered, it’s time for your next appointment. On the second visit, your dentist will seal the treated tooth.
What can be the Alternatives to Root Canal Treatment?
Unfortunately, tooth extraction is the only alternative to a root canal. While it’s preferable to save the natural teeth as much as possible, in some cases, one requires extraction to protect oral health.
A dental implant, dental bridge, or partial is applied to replace the extracted tooth if you are not a good candidate for root canal therapy.
Root Canal Treatment in Bendigo, VIC, Australia
If you are searching for the top dentist in Bendigo, VIC, Australia, who can expertly perform a root canal, then Integrated Smiles is the right choice. We have a team of highly skilled & experienced dentists who offer a range of dental services and treatments, including root canal treatment.
Call our customer service to find out more about our dental services or to book your appointment.
