Root canal treatment is available in order to save your teeth when you have been suffering from an infection in the centre of a tooth. Both naturally occurring and foreign, there is always some bacteria in your mouth. If you do not maintain good oral hygiene the bacteria can spread. If you also suffer from tooth decay cavities can develop in your teeth. If bacteria manages to travel into these cavities there is a great risk that the root of you tooth will become infected.
The root canal goes from the dental pulp to the end of the root. The pulp fills the inside of the tooth and is normally protected by a layer or dentin and enamel. Pulp is soft tissue and as such can become infected if not properly cared for. If this does occur root canal treatment may be the only option.
The treatment involves your dentist drilling down into the pulp and removing all infected areas of the tooth. If the bacteria can be successful removed there is a chance that the tooth can be saved but it will be necessary to have the tooth filled or crowned in order to stop any more foreign material getting back into the tooth and reinfecting. If the infection has become very severe your dentist may decide it is the best strategy to remove the tooth completely and not risk the infection spreading any further.
Your Leeds dentist will be able talk you through the entire procedure. To prevent the need for root canal treatment you should regularly brushing and floss your teeth. This will prevent the development of cavities so any infection that does occur cannot spread to the centre of the tooth.
Tags: Leeds Dentist, root canal treatment, Root Canal Treatment Leeds Dentist, Save Teeth
