Root canal treatment is carried out when the pulp portion of the tooth has become infected; effectively, once the pulp has been infected, the tooth is dead and the immune system no longer helps to protect the tooth, making it more susceptible to infection. The pulp is contained in the root canal portion of the tooth.
There are a number of different reasons why the pulp of the tooth may become infected; these include tooth decay, gum disease and accidents or injuries. Sometimes, when bacteria starts to collect in the root canal around the tip of the root, an abscess may start to develop; this will be very painful and may damage the tissue and bone around the tooth.
Root canal treatment can be used by Kent dentists to remove the infected pulp and clean the area thoroughly to remove any traces of bacteria; the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic and may be completed in one or two appointments. Many patients may feel nervous about having root canal treatment as it is a fairly invasive procedure and does usually involve using the dentist’s drill; patients with dental phobia may be offered additional sedation.
All dentists are qualified to carry out root canal treatment; however, more complex cases may be referred to an endodontist; this is a dental job which specialises in root canal treatment.