If ever you wondered where does the term 'endodontic' derives from 'Endo' means internal, while 'odont' translates to dental in Greek. Otherwise known as root canal, endodontics is a procedure done in diagnosing and treating tooth pain. It also covers disease and infection. Our specialists at Smile Dental Riverview focus on saving your natural teeth in a calm and safe environment. They are also trained to treat sensitive areas like the pulp. This is the soft inner part of the infected tooth. We advise all our patients to get regular check-ups in order to identify and treat the infected tooth.
What to look out for
- Toothache: consistent pain, particularly when eating, is the main indicator
- Sensitivity: a reaction to food and drink of various temperatures. This can also occur when touching the tooth. Tissue damage could also be a possibility. Other sensitive areas are the gums that can be often become sore.
- Swollen Gums: tender gums or a small lump, known as abscess, could lead to infection.
- Exposed Tooth: a chipped or cracked tooth could expose the pulp, which may require root canal.
- Tooth Discoloration: Any tooth that becomes dark could mean nerve damage.
What to expect during root canal treatment
Root Canal Treatment is probably the most effective method when it comes to addressing any issues around the inner structure of the tooth. Each patient is different, and so would the dental plan outlined by the dentist. We at Smile Dental Riverview go the extra mile to ensure an accurate diagnosis and personalised care. Should your treatment include root canal, here is what you can expect:
Step 1 - Diagnosis: an examination is done by our endodontist. This is to identify the problem in the tooth or gum. This is done through x-ray images and dental evaluations.
Step 2 - Anesthesia: to avoid a painful experience, local anesthesia is applied to the affected area to numb the tooth.
Step 3 - Access to the tooth: the orthodontist drills a small hole in the crown. This is to gain easy access to the pulp. This chamber is a sensitive area, so it is vital it is cleaned. This is to remove any risk of inflammation and infection.
Step 4 - Removing the Infection: our orthodontist then extracts the infected pulp. They then clean and disinfect the pulp chamber and root canals.
Step 5 - Sealing the Tooth: once the root canal treatment is completed, our orthodontist seals the pulp and root canal with a special material. This is to protect the tooth from any further infections. A temporary filling is also applied to the tooth as a shield from bacteria.
Step 6 - Restoration: the final step involves the fitting of the crown on the tooth. This is to protect the tooth and restore your natural bite.
After-care following root-canal treatment
The orthodontists at Smile Dental Riverview are here to serve you with quality care and service. However, the patient also has a role to play in the success of this treatment. Here's how...
- Following treatment, eat soft-foods for the next few days
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth
- Avoid smoking, as this would slow down the recovery process
- Brush regularly, floss daily and use antibacterial mouthwash