Root Canal Treatment:
How and Why

Severe Toothache?

You might be a good candidate for root canal treatment.

A toothache can be extremely painful. If left untreated, the infection can spread leading to facial swelling, unbearable pain and decay of the nerves within your tooth.

Here at Auckland Family Dental, our top team of dentists always endeavor to save your tooth whenever possible. With a root canal procedure, you are able to keep your natural teeth rather than having to extract them only to replace them with artificial teeth (implants, dentures & bridges).

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What is a Root Canal Treatment?

Inside every tooth you can find dental pulp (a soft tissue containing nerve endings) extending from the crown of the tooth down into the roots. Front teeth may have a singular root canal but premolars and molars may have 2 or 3 root canals.

A patient may require root canal treatment when bacteria enters the tooth reaching the dental pulp - this occurs through tooth decay, tooth fractures, deep cavities etc. This can cause the patient severe pain and discomfort.

A root canal is often misunderstood and feared. It is a treatment designed to save and repair a severely damaged or infected tooth, preventing the need for extraction.

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The Root Canal Procedure

Diagnosis
Before undergoing a root canal, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination. They will use X-rays to determine the extent of the infection and plan the treatment accordingly.

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Anesthesia
To ensure your comfort, the dentist will administer local anesthesia. You will feel little to no pain during the procedure.

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Cleaning and Shaping
The dentist will create a small access hole in the infected tooth and remove the infected pulp and damaged nerve. The interior of the tooth is then cleaned and shaped to prepare it for filling.

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Filling and Sealing
Once the tooth is cleaned and shaped, it is filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent further infection.

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Restoration
After the root canal, a crown or filling is placed on the tooth to restore its strength and appearance.

Common Misconceptions

Myth: Root Canals are Painful
One of the most common misconceptions about root canals is that they are extremely painful.

However, with advancements in modern dentistry and anesthesia, the procedure is now virtually painless. The discomfort associated with root canals is often caused by the infection itself, which the procedure aims to eliminate.

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Myth: Extraction is Better Than a Root Canal
Some individuals believe that extracting a tooth is a better option than a root canal. In reality, preserving your natural teeth is always the preferred choice. A root canal allows you to keep your natural tooth, which is essential for proper oral function and aesthetics.

Why Get a Root Canal Treatment?

When faced with a dental infection, opting for a root canal treatment is not just about immediate relief. It's a proactive step towards safeguarding your oral and overall health. Here's why you should consider a root canal:

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Relief from Severe Pain
‍Dental infections can cause excruciating pain. A root canal provides swift and effective relief, allowing you to regain your comfort.

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Preventing Abscess Formation
‍Left untreated, infections can lead to abscesses around your tooth roots, which can be extremely painful and pose serious health risks.

Preserving Bone Tissue
‍Untreated infections can deteriorate the underlying bone tissue, compromising the stability of your teeth and overall oral health.
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‍Avoiding Further Complications
‍Dental infections can spread, causing harm to neighboring teeth, potentially leading to illness, fevers, facial swelling, and even blood poisoning.
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‍Preserving Your Natural Tooth
‍Timely root canal treatment increases the likelihood of saving your natural tooth, preserving your smile and oral function.