Root Canal in Formby

Our teeth are formed from layers of tissue. The outer layer is the hard, white enamel. Beneath this is the sensitive dentine and the deepest layer is the pulp tissue. This is the area of the tooth that holds all the nerve and blood vessels. This tissue extends into the roots of the tooth via the root canal structures - essentially hollow tubes through which these vessels pass. Tooth decay, cracks in the tooth and sometimes heavily filled or crowned (or capped) teeth can all lead to bacteria getting into this root canal space which then causes pain and sometimes a swelling adjacent to the affected tooth. Occasionally this pain can be quite severe (acute infection or inflammation) and sometimes it just ‘comes and goes’ (chronic infection).

The process of Endodontic treatment is to locate, shape and disinfect the root canal structure of the affected tooth. This process is carried-out under dental dam isolation. This allows the tooth to be kept clean and dry during the treatment and prevents bacteria from saliva re-entering the tooth. An operating microscope is used to provide high magnification so that all areas of the tooth can be inspected and cleansed and all root canals located and disinfected.

Once the root canal treatment has been completed, it is usual for the tooth to be restored with a crown to strengthen the tooth against cracking or fracturing. A crown also provides an excellent seal against bacteria.

Teeth which have received root canal treatment by an Endodontist (a dentist with extra training in the field of Endodontics) have a high clinical success rate usually in the 90-95% chance of maintaining the tooth.

In the past, a root filled tooth would often darken after treatment. However, with modern techniques this does not usually happen. If there is any discolouration, there are several treatments available to restore the natural appearance.

Root canal treatment is usually very successful. However, if the infection comes back the treatment can be repeated.