If you have a severe toothache, you may need root canal treatment. If your tooth is damaged or cracked, has a very deep cavity or has recent trauma to the tooth, you are more likely to undergo a root canal treatment as your teeth are more susceptible to infection in these scenarios.

Root canal therapy (or endodontics) is necessary when an infection is deep within the tooth, or there is inflammation. Blood and nerve supplies in the teeth can become infected or inflamed through injury or severe tooth decay. You may not feel pain or discomfort in the early stages of infection. However, if the tooth changes colour and becomes darker, this is a sign that the nerve in the tooth is dying. Left untreated, this type of infection is excruciating and can lead to tooth abscesses and tooth loss.

Root canal therapy includes the removal of the infected nerve from the root before it is sealed to protect the tooth from further damage.

We will take an X-ray at the first visit to confirm the infection status. At Waiata Shores Dental, with the help of 3D imaging, we can check if we can do a Root Canal successfully. Also, during the procedure, it helps with looking at the missed canals, which reduces the chances of re-treatment. A local anaesthetic is administered in the area, and rubber material called a "rubber dam" is placed around the tooth to keep it dry and accessible throughout the procedure. Once done, the dentist uses a specially designed instrument to remove the infected tissue. The root is cleaned and disinfected, filling it with a medicament to prevent re-infection. The entire procedure takes three to four visits, depending on the extent of infection and difficulty of the canals. Our dentist will discuss the procedure, complications and cost with you beforehand. Between the appointments, a temporary dressing will be placed on the tooth.

At the last visit, a filling is placed, and then the tooth is re-examined after three months for a crown which is very important to protect the tooth from fracturing or re-infecting.

How can I avoid root canal treatment?

One can avoid root canal treatment with good dental care. A regular check-up at the dentist can catch problems you may not even be usually aware of. They will check the current fillings and crowns for damage or cracks. Treating the teeth early can prevent infection and further complications leading to endodontic treatment.

Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of root canal infections. You can help keep cavities at bay by brushing and flossing regularly, chewing sugar-free gum between meals, and reducing the amount of soda and sugar in your diet.