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Endodoncie
Root Canal Treatments (Endodontics)
The majority of us visit the dentist for emergency tooth repair services and most of the time the dental procedure involves filling cracked enamel or recreating missing parts of healthy teeth.
However, quite often the damage goes past the visible outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and is inside and in the tooth pulp. When the inside is infected or inflamed it may require root canal treatment, otherwise known as endodontic treatment, endo. or endodontics.
At Dr. Mahoney’s International Dental Clinic our doctors are qualified Endodontists. These are dentists who are specialized in matters concerning the inside of the tooth (the tooth pulp) which is comprised of nerve tissue and blood vessels. We use only top-quality instruments, materials and medication all under a strict international clean health and safety regime.
Dr. Mahoney and team have years of international experience ensuring thorough, quick and effective root canal treatment. With the latest hi-tech equipment procedures can also be performed pain free.
Questions and Answers about Endodontics
What is root canal treatment (RCT)?
Root canal treatment is a way to save a tooth. The purpose is to restore the tooth back to good health so that it can function properly inside your mouth.
Endodontic or root canal treatment is necessary when the blood or nerve supply of a tooth (the pulp) is damaged and usually infected (bacteria) through decay (or cavity), infection or injury. You may not feel any pain in the early stages of infection. If your tooth darkens in colour it may mean that the nerve of the tooth is dying or is dead. This too would need root canal treatment.
Why is it needed?
Deep inside every tooth is a pulp chamber and root canals that contain living tissue called the pulp. The pulp is often mistakenly referred to as the 'nerve', but in fact it contains a fine network of tissue fibres, nerves, and blood vessels.
When the pulp becomes infected the infection may spread to and through the root canal system (root) of a tooth. This may eventually lead to an abscess and can cause swelling of the tissues around the tooth. An abscess is an inflamed area in which pus collects and form beneath the root of the tooth and in the jawbone. The symptoms of an abscess can range from a dull ache to quite severe pain. The tooth is often tender when you bite. If root canal treatment is not carried out the infection will spread and invariably the tooth will have to be extracted (taken out).
How long and what does Endodontic treatment involve?
The aim is to remove all the infection (bacteria) from the root canal and tooth. The root is then cleaned, disinfected and filled to prevent any further infections. In most cases an abscess will start to heal at this point.
Dr Daniela Mahoney‘s root canal treatment is a skilled procedure and it is usually possible to complete the treatment in one extended appointment. However, it can also take time; treatments can involve two or more visits to the dentist according to the complexity. In these cases there is usually an initial consultation of half an hour and a follow-up appointment of between one to two hours may be required. The infected pulp is removed at the first appointment. If there are any abscesses, they will be drained too. The root canal is then cleaned and shaped ready for the filling. A temporary filling is put in and the tooth is left to settle down. At the next visit the tooth is checked and when all the infection has gone, it is filled permanently.
Is there any pain?
There is no pain. A local anaesthetic is usually used and the treatment should feel no different to having a filling done. Every possible step is taken to ensure that you are comfortable while being treated. Our Hi-tech equipment can also be used. Following treatment you will be informed of the possibility of discomfort from the area. This is usually minor, and does not last long.
What if am nervous?
At Dr. Mahoney’s International Dental Clinic we always discuss your own particular requirements before any treatment is undertaken.
If you are considerably anxious, oral or intravenous sedation can be arranged. As your safety is of paramount concern, our official anaesthetist is at hand.
X-rays?
The only way to ascertain what is happening inside and underneath your teeth is with the use of X-rays. Taken inside the mouth they are of a minimal dosage and pose virtually no danger. We have the very latest on-chair digital machines (and on chair monitors for you to see too) that further reduce the risk of the already small radiation dose by a further 80%. We also have the latest and best Panoramic X-ray (full head).
What does my tooth look like after treatment?
In the past teeth used to darken after treatment. With our modern techniques and quality materials the teeth do not darken with time. If there is any discoloration or if you have discoloration on other teeth, we can restore the natural appearance with the latest pain-free technology.
Success Rate?
Root canal treatment is very successful. Very rarely does an infection return due to circumstances beyond the control of the doctor. If so the treatment can be easily repeated.
Is the tooth safe after treatment?
The tooth is perfectly safe and functions normally. With time, it may be necessary to add a crown, which adds more support, strength and maybe a better shape, look and feel.
Is there any aftercare?
Root-treated teeth should be treated just the same as any other tooth. Remember to clean your teeth at least twice a day, preferably with fluoride toothpaste. Try to not eat too many sugary snacks and keep them for mealtimes if possible. It is important and the international norm now to see your hygienist twice a year and your dentist as often as they recommend for regular check-ups.
What If I don’t have treatment?
If you don’t have treatment, the tooth will eventually have to be taken out. When pulp is destroyed, it unfortunately doesn’t heal itself. Leaving an infected tooth in the mouth can also lead to abscesses and pain. Although some people prefer an extraction, it is of course better to keep as many natural teeth as possible.
Where can this treatment are carried out?
At Dr Mahoneys dental practice root canal treatment is a very routine dental procedure. We are always here for you and to fit in to your schedule. The dentist is happy, thoughtful and caring. An appointment is all you need for good quality root canal treatment and much more.