Endodontic Treatments Explained

At Spring Hill Dental, one of the specialist treatments we offer is endodontics, commonly known as root canal therapy. While the thought of a root canal might make some patients anxious, the reality is that this treatment is essential for saving teeth that might otherwise need to be extracted. Our specialist endodontist, Peter, uses advanced techniques and cutting edge technology to ensure that the procedure is as comfortable and efficient as possible.

In this post, we’ll walk you through what a root canal is, why you might need one, and how we perform this treatment at Spring Hill Dental using the latest technologies, including the use of a microscope for precision.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a treatment designed to save a tooth that has become infected or inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, or cracks. Inside each tooth, there’s a soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected, it can lead to severe pain, sensitivity, and even abscesses. Without treatment, the infection can spread, causing further complications and potentially the loss of the tooth.

The goal of a root canal is to remove the infected or damaged pulp, clean and disinfect the inner space of the tooth, and then seal it to prevent further infection. This allows the tooth to remain functional without causing pain or spreading infection.

Why Are Patients Referred for Endodontic Treatment?

At Spring Hill Dental, many of the patients we see for root canal treatment come through referrals from general dentists, both within our practice and from other clinics across the region. Root canals are delicate procedures that require specialised training and equipment, particularly when the tooth anatomy is complex or the infection is extensive.

General dentists will typically refer patients to an endodontist when:

1. The tooth has an unusual structure, such as curved or narrow canals, making it difficult to treat with conventional tools.
2. Previous root canal treatment has failed, and further specialised care is needed.
3. The infection is advanced and may require more intricate techniques to fully remove the damaged tissue.
4. Microscopic precision is needed to ensure that even the tiniest canals and areas of infection are treated.

Endodontic specialists like Peter have received additional years of training specifically in diagnosing and treating issues related to the pulp and root structures of the teeth. They also have access to the latest technologies that allow for greater accuracy and success rates.

How Is the Root Canal Procedure Performed?

Here at Spring Hill Dental, we strive to make the root canal process as seamless and comfortable as possible. The procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Diagnosis and Planning: Before we begin, we’ll take digital X-rays and may use a CBCT scanner (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) to get a 3D view of the tooth and surrounding structures. This gives us a clear understanding of the infection’s extent and helps us plan the most effective approach.
2. Anaesthesia: The tooth and surrounding area are numbed with local anaesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Our use of modern anaesthetic techniques ensures that the process is comfortable from start to finish.
3. Accessing the Pulp: The dentist will carefully create an opening in the crown (top) of the tooth to access the infected pulp inside the root canals.
4. Cleaning and Shaping the Canals: Using specialised instruments and techniques, the infected pulp is removed, and the canals are thoroughly cleaned and shaped. This is where our use of a dental microscope comes in. By magnifying the tooth up to 20 times, the microscope allows us to see every tiny detail inside the tooth, ensuring that no infected tissue is missed. This leads to a higher success rate and reduces the likelihood of complications down the road.
5. Filling the Canals: Once the canals are clean, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals the space and prevents bacteria from entering. A temporary filling is then placed on the tooth to protect it until a permanent crown or filling can be applied.
6. Restoration: After the root canal is completed, we’ll work with your general dentist to place a permanent crown or filling over the tooth to restore its strength and function. This is crucial because a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment becomes more fragile and needs the protection of a crown to withstand daily chewing forces.

Why We Use Advanced Technology in Root Canal Treatments

One of the key reasons why Spring Hill Dental stands out in the field of endodontics is our use of advanced technology, including microscopes, CBCT scanners, and digital X-rays. These tools allow us to provide more accurate diagnoses and perform treatments with higher precision than ever before.

The dental microscope is particularly valuable during root canal treatments. Because the root canals are so tiny, often narrower than a human hair, being able to see them clearly is essential for success. The microscope allows the dentist to clean out even the smallest canals and detect cracks or hidden infections that would otherwise go unnoticed. This level of detail ensures a more thorough treatment and reduces the risk of future problems.

Using CBCT scans also means we can detect complex anatomical variations before starting the procedure. This is particularly useful when treating molars or teeth with multiple roots, where it’s easy to miss infected canals without 3D imaging.

Aftercare and Recovery

After the root canal procedure, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. We’ll provide you with aftercare instructions to help you manage any discomfort and ensure a smooth recovery. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities the day after the procedure.

It’s also important to follow up with your general dentist to have the permanent crown or filling placed. This final step is crucial to protecting the treated tooth and maintaining its function for years to come.

Conclusion: Why Choose Spring Hill Dental for Your Endodontic Treatment?

At Spring Hill Dental, we understand that the thought of a root canal can be intimidating, but our specialist led approach ensures that the procedure is as painless and efficient as possible. With our expertise and the use of advanced technology, we’re able to provide top quality care that saves teeth and restores smiles.

If your general dentist has referred you to us for a root canal, or if you’re experiencing tooth pain and suspect you may need one, we’re here to help. Our team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you feel comfortable and informed from start to finish. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment.