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Root Canal Treatment

A root canal treatment is a procedure performed by a dentist to save a tooth. It involves removing infected pulp tissue from the inside the tooth root canal system in order to prevent or eliminate infection. The root canal system is disinfected, prepared using special root canal files and sealed using a root canal filling to prevent reinfection. This procedure is also known as endodontics.

How Does The Pulp Become Infected

The dental pulp is rich in nerves and blood vessels that are isolated from the bacteria that live in the mouth by the enamel and dentine layers of the tooth. If these bacteria that naturally occur in the mouth manage to reach the pulp they cause an infection. This can happen as a result of:

  • Advanced tooth decay

  • Fracured tooth

  • Fractured or failed dental restoration

  • Trauma

Once the bacteria gain access to the pulp they multiply and spread throughout the tooth's root canal system. The bacteria proceed to break down the pulpal tissues and this releases toxins into the root canal system. The infection and toxins spread down the roots and out of the apex of the tooth root into the underlying tissues. This causes inflammation and infection in the form of an abscess around the tooth root with resultant pain and swelling. As the infection is contained within the tooth, the only way to remove it is to perform a root canal treatment.

 

If you have a tooth that is causing discomfort or for a confidential discussion about root-canal-treatments please contact one of our friendly staff on (08)9341 1022 to arrange a time for a consultation.

  
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