Root Canals
The right treatment from experienced Dentists. Peak Dental makes sure you are comfortable throughout your root canal procedure.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure on your tooth that’s necessary if the nerve has become damaged. A root canal opens up your tooth, removes any decay and the damaged nerve, then fills the root canal and reconstructs the tooth with a filling.
Do I need a Root Canal?
When the nerve is dying in a tooth you may experience quite a lot of pain, it can be tender to bite on, and you may experience swelling around the gum.
The first step is to book an appointment to see one of our Dentists as soon as possible. They will xray your tooth and identify whether you need a root canal or if there is another cause for your discomfort.
What causes nerve damage in a tooth?
You may need a root canal if you have had a knock to your tooth that has caused damage; if you have a hole in your tooth that that has caused decay to reach the nerve in the root; or, if you have a heavily filled tooth where the weight of the filling over time has caused the nerve in your tooth to die.
How is a Root Canal done?
A root canal is usually carried out across at least two appointments. In the first appointment our focus is on getting rid of the cause of pain. We start by opening the tooth, clearing it of decay and applying antibiotic dressing. We then put a temporary filling in place so you can be comfortable until the second appointment.
The second appointment usually takes a little longer and involves removing the nerve from the tooth before filling up the root canal and placing a final filling on your tooth.
Normally we recommend you come back and get a crown fitted within 6 months of a root canal for the best long term results.
What if I choose to not have a Root Canal?
If you choose not to proceed with a root canal; we will still recommend treating your tooth. Without treatment you could develop an abscess.
You may choose to have your tooth extracted instead of having a root canal procedure. You can find out more about Extractions here.
