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Archive for the ‘root canal treatment’ Category

How a Root Canal can Save Your Damaged Tooth

Wednesday, July 26th, 2017

shutterstock_6114607Root canal treatment is a much maligned treatment, but the truth of the matter is that this procedure can save your teeth. Many people are fearful of root canal therapy because they assume that it’s going to be painful, but treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain.

What is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a procedure, which is used to treat infected and damaged teeth. The aim of the procedure is to remove decayed or damaged tissue from the tooth once the pulp has been infected. The pulp is the tooth’s living tissue and once it is damaged, the tooth starts to die, as blood flow is reduced. At this stage, there’s a risk of infection spreading further, and the tooth will eventually become rotten. To avoid extraction, your dentist may recommend root canal treatment.

What does root canal treatment involve?

Before your dentist starts the procedure, they will numb the tooth to prevent you from feeling any pain. Once the anaesthetic has taken effect, your dentist will drill into the tooth to access the root canals. Any decayed or damaged pulp tissue will be removed, and the canals will be cleaned and then stuffed with material known as gutta percha. This seals the root canals and reduces the risk of further infection.

After root canal treatment, your dentist may recommend placing a new crown on the tooth to make it stronger and more resistant to damage. Initially, a temporary crown may be used, and this will be replaced by a permanent crown around 2 weeks later. We can use ceramics to make the crown, so you won’t be able to tell the difference between the crown and the rest of the natural tooth structure.

If you’re nervous about having root canal treatment or you’d like to find out more about the procedure and how it could benefit you, our dental team will be happy to help.

Did You Know We Use a Special Microscope for Root Canal Treatments?

Monday, May 22nd, 2017

shutterstock_429718120Root canal treatment is much maligned, but it’s actually a very important and effective procedure. At City Dental Leeds, we often come across patients who are anxious about having root canal treatment, but we can assure you that you’re in the best possible hands. We use the latest technology, including a special microscope, and precision techniques to achieve the best possible outcome.

Why would I need root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a procedure, which is used to treat an infected tooth when the infection has reached the pulp tissue. The pulp lies beneath the enamel surface and it contains the living tissue of the tooth. Here, you’ll find the nerves, lymph tissue and blood vessels. Once the pulp is infected, there’s a high risk of further infection, abscesses and tooth loss. Root canal treatment is often an alternative to extraction.

What does treatment involve?

Many people fear hearing the words root canal long before they even learn anything about the process. This procedure has a bad reputation, which cannot really be justified. The procedure is conducted under local anaesthetic, which prevents any pain, and we use a microscope to plan every stage with optimal precision. Before we begin, we will administer the local anaesthetic and once it has taken effect, we will create an opening in the pulp chamber. We then insert files to determine how long the roots are and start removing decayed tissue from the root canals. We use high quality titanium instruments to irrigate the root canals and clean them thoroughly to prevent the spread of infection. We then use a material called gutta percha to fill and seal the root canals. Finally, a new filling or crown is placed to strengthen the tooth.

If you’re struggling with tooth pain, you find it painful to bite down or you’re worried that you may have a dental abscess, this may indicate that you need root canal treatment. Call us today to book an appointment.

The Root Canal, Explained

Tuesday, April 18th, 2017

shutterstock_402395935We often see people recoil in horror and anxiety when we mention the words root canal. The truth is that root canal treatment has something of a bad reputation, which is largely unjustified. This procedure is often feared by patients, but it is actually a very useful and important treatment, which can make the difference between losing and saving a tooth.

About Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is used to treat a decayed or infected tooth. This procedure is called upon when an infection has reached the tooth pulp. The pulp is the living tissue. It contains the nerves ad blood vessels and once it becomes decayed or damaged, there is every chance that the tooth will die and infection will spread. Root canal therapy is a procedure designed to stem the spread of infection and prevent tooth loss.

Before root canal treatment, the tooth is numbed completely using local anaesthetic. This will help to ensure that you don’t experience any pain during the procedure. Your dentist will drill into the tooth to access the root canals, the part of the tooth that contains the pulp. Your dentist will clear away the decayed tissue, disinfect and clean the tooth thoroughly and then stuff the root canals using a material called gutta percha. Once this has been done, the root canals will be sealed, and a new crown may be fitted.

Is root canal treatment painful?

This is the most common question patients have about root canal therapy. Many assume that they’re going to have to endure awful pain while they have treatment and cope with discomfort when they return home. The truth is that you shouldn’t find this procedure painful at all, as it is carried out under local anaesthetic. If you do have discomfort once the effects of the anaesthetic have worn off at home, we recommend taking over the counter pain relief medication. We have an expert team of dentists at City Dental Leeds, and we promise that you’re in the best hands. If you’re anxious, we are here to help and reassure you at every stage of the process.

Knowing the Root Canal –  5 Steps and Nothing to Fear

Monday, January 23rd, 2017

shutterstock_413397850We often come across patients who feel incredibly anxious at the mere mention of root canal treatment. The good news is that at City Dental Leeds, you don’t have to worry about a thing. Our expert dental team is here to help, and ensure you get the treatment you need without any pain. We use a simple 5-step procedure, which tackles infection, and preserves your beautiful smile.

What exactly is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure, which is often called into action when you have an infected tooth, and the infection has reached the pulp chamber. The pulp tissue contains the living tissue of the tooth, including the nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp is infected, the tooth is at risk, and without treatment, it may become severely damaged and there’s a chance that an abscess will form. Signs that may indicate that you need root canal treatment include increased sensitivity and pain when you’re chewing.

Root canal treatment is often an alternative to tooth extraction; with this treatment, we can effectively save a tooth that would otherwise be lost.

The 5-step procedure

Before you have root canal therapy, you will be given anaesthetic to make sure that you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.

Step.1: your dentist will use specially designed instruments to create an opening in the pulp chamber of the tooth.

Step.2: your dentist will insert files into the tooth to determine the exact length of the root canals.

Step.3: nickel-titanium rotary instruments are used to clean and clear the root canals and remove decayed pulp tissue.

Step.4: the root canals are sealed using a material called gutta percha.

Step.5: a filling or a temporary crown is placed to secure and strengthen the tooth.

If you’re worried about root canal, don’t be! We promise that you’re in safe hands. This treatment is a common procedure, which can make a massive difference to your oral health; it’s also a cost-effective solution. Call us today to find out more.

Stop Infection in its Tracks with a Root Canal Procedure

Wednesday, April 20th, 2016

585986_blogTooth pulp infection may occur due to tooth decay, a dental abscess or oral injury where a tooth is damaged. In such cases, root canal treatment may be necessary to remove the decayed pulp tissue, seal the inner tooth and to restore the tooth structure to good health.

Root canal surgery is used to clear oral infection, prevent tooth loss and protect the body from infection. Incessant toothache is a sign that dental pulp infection may be present.

In some cases, the tooth may be so damaged that tooth extraction is necessary. Patients then have a range of choices to replace the missing tooth, such as crown, bridge or dental implants.

Root canal treatment procedures

Initially, an oral examination is done with dental X-rays or imaging to identify the extent of dental damage and oral infection. During the operation, patients are given a local anaesthetic for pain-free treatment. In some cases, a general anaesthetic may be provided.

Surgical instruments are used to remove infected tooth pulp from the root canal and tooth. A special dental fluid is then used to wash the root canal and tooth out, removing all tissue and debris so that the site is clean and ready to be sealed. Dental filler is used to seal the treated tooth before a tooth restoration, such as a dental filling or crown is fitted.

Root canal treatment and recovery

For a week after treatment, patients should avoid biting on the site. Initially, painkillers may be used to treat any discomfort. Once the tooth is restored with permanent dental restoration, there should be no pain. Teeth cleaning and dental check-ups should continue as normal. If you think you would like a check-up for oral infection please contact the team at City Dental in Leeds.

Root Canal Treatment Provided by Experts

Tuesday, October 20th, 2015

585811_blogLeeds dentists offer effective root canal treatment

Sometimes teeth become damaged internally and require a process called root canal treatment in order to restore their functionality and health.  Inside each of your teeth is a mass of important substances such as nerves, arteries, tissues and veins.  They are all housed inside what are known as pulp chambers and are best entered through the root canals.

Extreme tooth decay and one off accidents are the most common causes of internal dental damage that might need root canal treatment.  If the pulp tissue has become infected to the point where an abscess is forming then root canal treatment might be the only option.

If you have a constantly aching tooth, swollen gums or – common in the case of accidents affecting the mouth – a tooth that has turned noticeably darker in tone than the rest, you should inform your dentist immediately as root canal treatment might be needed.

Root canal treatment aims to remove the pulp from the afflicted chamber and disinfect it by drilling into the tooth.  X-rays play a vital part in this process so that your dentist can assess the precise location of any infection. Then your tooth will be monitored while the entry point is sealed up with a temporary filling.  Satisfied that no infection has returned and that the canal and chamber remain free of debris, your dentist will place the permanent filling.

Looking for a Leeds dentist? City Dental Leeds are here to help.

It is a complicated and invasive treatment which requires local anaesthetic but is necessary to stop any complications from occurring.  Being sure to visit your dentist every six months will allow them to spot any early signs of conditions which need solving using root canal treatment.  Contact your Leeds dentist for more information about root canal treatment.

How to Treat a Tooth Infection

Sunday, September 27th, 2015

944335_blogRoughly speaking, a tooth can be divided into two parts: the outer crown and the inner root. It is these roots which anchor the crown into your jaw. Your tooth contains within it a remarkable ‘root canal’ system, which stretches all the way from the exposed enamel of the outer crown all the way down to the roots themselves. Within this complex system is a ‘pulp chamber’, which houses the living tissue that is your dental pulp. If the pulp gets infected, your tooth is effectively dying and if this is not treated you could lose your tooth. Root canal surgery is essentially the process of cleaning out the bacteria that can cause such an infection.

How does a tooth become infected?

For bacteria to make its way to your tooth pulp, the outer crown must first be penetrated. Tooth decay or damage can easily grant bacteria access to your tooth pulp, as can a leaked filling. It is important to see your dentist should a filling break in order to prevent a tooth infection.

What happens during root canal surgery?

Firstly, X-rays will be taken of the damaged tooth to help identify the number of roots in your tooth and any symptoms of infection. A local anaesthetic will be administered and a rubber dam may be placed over your infected tooth to help keep the tooth dry. This will prevent re-infection and aiding us in administering the procedure. The infected pulp with then be removed and any abscesses will be drained. The root canal system itself will be cleansed, closed up and then a temporary filling will be placed over the tooth. You will then be required for a second appointment to make sure re-infection has not occurred. Finally, a permanent filling will be fitted.

Does it hurt?

Thanks to the local anaesthetic, you should feel very little during the actual surgery. Following surgery your tooth may be a little tender or uncomfortable, but this really is nothing when compared to the excruciating pain of an infected tooth. For more information please contact the team at City Dental in the very heart of Leeds.

 

 

 

What Is Involved In Root Canal Treatment?

Tuesday, September 15th, 2015

585811_blogRoot canal treatment is an endodontic procedure, which means that it involves the tooth pulp; the pulp is the living tissue of the tooth. Usually, root canal treatment is performed when a tooth is decayed or infected and the infection has spread to the pulp and it is often an alternative to tooth extraction.

What exactly does root canal treatment involve?

Before you have root canal treatment, your dentist will numb your tooth completely using local anaesthetic which helps to ensure that you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. Once the tooth is numb, your dentist will use a drill to access the root canals and any decayed or damaged pulp tissue will be removed and the canals will be cleared, cleaned and sealed. The root canals are filled with gutta percha, a dental filling material, to prevent the infection from spreading. Once the procedure is complete, a temporary crown is usually placed and this will be replaced by a permanent restoration around 2 weeks later. Placing a new crown strengthens the tooth and helps to reduce the risk of further infection. Before the crown is placed, the tooth is shaped and an impression is made; the impression is sent to a dental laboratory and your new bespoke crown will be fabricated by a skilled technician.

Are there any alternatives to root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is usually considered as an alternative to tooth extraction, which involves removing the tooth; in effect, this procedure can help to save a tooth. In most cases, a dentist will do everything to can to prevent removing a tooth and root canal treatment is generally preferred to extraction. In cases where the damage or decay is very severe and it is not possible to save the tooth, extraction will be carried out and it is advisable to consider tooth replacement treatment. Replacement options include dental implants, dental bridges and dentures.

Is root canal really as bad as everyone says?

There’s an assumption that root canal treatment is a scary and painful experience, but in reality, this is not the case. The procedure is conducted under local anaesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain. It is true that you may experience mild discomfort after the effects of the anaesthetic start to wear off at home; however, taking over the counter pain relief can usually ease temporary discomfort. If you are anxious about having root canal treatment, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist.

 

Root Canal Treatment is More Comfortable Than Ever Before

Tuesday, July 14th, 2015

585811_blogIf you’re one of the many people who feels instantly uncomfortable when the words root and canal are mentioned in the same sentence, we have great news! Using the latest techniques, our experienced dentists offer comfortable root canal treatment to put an end to your dental woes and restore your beautiful smile.

What does root canal treatment involve?

Root canal treatment is a very important and effective dental procedure that can make the difference between keeping and losing a tooth. This procedure is usually used to treat a dental infection when it has spread to the pulp tissue. This is the living part of the tooth and contains the nerves and blood vessels. Once the pulp is infected, the blood supply to the tooth is reduced and there is a high risk of further infection and dental abscesses, which are very painful. Root canal treatment helps to stem the spread of infection and preserve the tooth.

Many people feel anxious when root canal treatment crops up in conversation and it does have a bit of a bad reputation. However, treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic and we use advanced techniques to achieve optimum results with minimal discomfort. We can assure you that you’re in the safest hands and we will ensure that you are completely comfortable during the procedure.

What actually happens when you have root canal treatment?

Before treatment begins, the tooth is numbed completely to prevent you from feeling pain. Once the effects of the local anaesthetic have come into play, your dentist start the procedure by drilling into your tooth and cleaning and clearing the root canals. All the decayed tissue is taken out and the canals are given a very thorough clean. The root canals are then filled using a material known as gutta percha and sealed. After root canal treatment, it is common to crown the tooth. A temporary crown is usually fitted and a permanent crown placed around two weeks later. The new crown helps to restore and strengthen the tooth and it can also have amazing aesthetic benefits.

Effective Root Canal Treatment to Save Your Smile

Saturday, June 13th, 2015

585811_blogIf you’re searching for an effective treatment for a dental infection, root canal treatment could be just the saviour you’ve been looking for. Root canal treatment is often called upon when an infection has become severe and the only other alternative is to remove the tooth. Although many people get anxious when they even hear the words ‘root’ and ‘canal’ in the same sentence, this is actually a simple procedure that can really help to ease discomfort and restore good oral health.

Why would I need Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is predominantly used when an infection has spread to the tooth pulp (the living tissue of the tooth). When the pulp becomes infected, the tooth is at serious risk of extraction. The nerves and blood vessels are located within the pulp.

If you have a tooth that is severely decayed, you may be advised to have root canal treatment. This procedure is often an alternative to extraction and makes the difference between saving and losing a tooth.

The procedure involves clearing, cleaning and sealing the root canals to rid the tooth of infection and decayed tissue and prevent further spread of infection. Before the procedure, your dentist will give you a dose of local anaesthetic and this will numb the tooth so you won’t experience any discomfort. When your tooth is completely numb, your dentist will drill into the tooth and start to remove any decayed tissue from the root canals. Once the root canals are completely clear, your dentist will clean the root canals, fill them with gutta percha (a special dental material) and then seal them. This process helps to reduce the risk of infection spreading through the tooth.

Often, after root canal treatment, we advise fitting a new crown. The crown is placed over the top of the tooth and it helps to stabilise and strengthen it. Crowns also often improve the aesthetic of the tooth, particularly in cases of severe damage or decay.