FAQs about root canals answered by our dentist
At our practice, we know we have a bit of a reputation when it comes to providing top-of-the-line cosmetic options. However, we are also well-versed in offering our patients some of the more general aspects of dental treatments too. After all, we want your mouth to be in top condition when you have your smile makeover!
Dr Bobby Chhoker, our dental team in Bondi Junction can help with all manner of general dental care, such as check-ups, fillings, crowns, root canals and of course, extractions as and when they are needed. As these are important and practical treatments for many dental ailments and play a large part in maintaining better overall dental health.
With that in mind, we will now come to one of the less popular treatments that we can offer; root canals. And our lead dentist will answer some of the more common questions that we receive about this procedure.
Does it kill the tooth?
It is a bit of a mixed answer; yes, in some ways when our dental team performs a root canal, they will be removing part of the pulp, which will kill part of the tooth. But a root canal will not cause the tooth to turn black, or to fall out. The primary purpose of a root canal is to prevent the tooth from crumbling and falling apart. As well as maintaining the aesthetics of the tooth.
Does it hurt?
When we perform a root canal, we will be sure to numb your mouth beforehand with a local anaesthetic. If you have a dental aversion, we will use a sedation option instead. The process overall will not hurt, but it may cause the area to feel slightly sensitive afterwards. This is normal and should be manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. If it isn’t, then come and see our team for a reassessment of the site.
Is it better than an extraction?
A root canal is usually a better option than an extraction. It prevents the tooth from needing to be removed, and it allows you to maintain the positioning of your teeth. You may not know this, but if you have a tooth removed, as the gum and jaw shrink back, the surrounding teeth can move out of alignment, creating orthodontic issues.
It also prevents the infection from spreading too and so our team will aim to use it as the first port of call when treating infection and saving your teeth.
How long will it last?
With the correct level of aftercare, such as daily cleaning of your teeth, flossing and seeing our team every 6 months for a check-up, your root canal should easily last the rest of your life. Without recurrence of the abscess or damage to the tooth.
Is it expensive?
Many people worry that having a root canal fitted will be expensive. However, when compared to the costs of having a bridge, denture or orthodontic work to restore the teeth that have moved post-extraction, it often becomes a lot more affordable!
DISCLAIMER
All treatments carry risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.