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Endodontics (Root Canal Treatment)
Endodontics is Dr. Rajan Chadha’s special interest
Dr Rajan Chadha, one of our Principal Dentists, has a special interest in root canal treatment. He uses an endodontic microscope and the latest techniques and materials to ensure his patients have the best chance of preserving their natural teeth.
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontics, is the process by which infected teeth can be saved by cleaning, shaping and filling the fine channels within the roots.
Why do I need root canal treatment?
The pulp tissue within a tooth, which contains nerves and blood vessels, can become inflamed or infected due to decay, fracture or trauma. Often the extent of the problem isn’t evident until toothache arises, by which point the pulp tissue has already been badly damaged.
Is root canal treatment painful?
No. Root canal treatment has an undeserved reputation for being a painful procedure. Modern techniques and anaesthesia mean that it is no worse than a normal filling.
What does it involve?
After administering local anaesthetic, the dentist will gain access to the canals within the roots of the tooth. These canals are then shaped using fine files and disinfected, before filling and sealing them off. Depending on the tooth, this normally requires one or two long appointments.
How successful is it?
Like any medical procedure, success cannot be guaranteed, but long-term studies have shown that root canal treatment is normally very effective.
What happens after?
The tooth which has been treated will need to have a restoration placed at the end of the final appointment. Often back teeth will require a subsequent crown or onlay to protect the tooth from breaking under chewing forces.
What are the alternative options?
The only alternative to root canal treatment for an infected tooth is extraction. The removal of a tooth should not be taken lightly. There may be unwanted movement of adjacent and opposing teeth, and an unsightly gap could be created. Replacing missing teeth is normally more expensive and complex than root canal treatment, and there is nothing as good as your own teeth!