Root Canal Therapy

Our Shoreham dentists will always endeavour to save your teeth rather than remove them, because natural teeth are best. The loss of even one tooth can have a detrimental effect on your mouth and can lead to your other teeth drifting into the gap, which can cause problems with your bite.

One of the ways we can prevent the loss of a tooth is with root canal treatment. Treatment involves the removal of the pulp tissue from the centre of your tooth as a result of infection or inflammation. A root canal treated tooth can function normally and can be maintained with routine dental care and oral hygiene measures.

Root canal treatment is performed under local anaesthetic whilst conscious sedation may be provided on request to give greater relaxation during treatment. It is important to us that our patients feel relaxed, comfortable and safe while undergoing treatment.

“Thank you so much for all your help with my recent root canal filling. I realise that I may be a tricky customer! You were very gentle and kind…You are all fantastic at what you do and I thank you once again for helping me.” Kate

“I felt quite apprehensive and nervous about having [root canal] treatment but when I arrived everyone was really friendly. During treatment I didn’t feel anything; I even fell asleep! Once the treatment was finished the pain in my tooth had gone completely. I cannot recommend Church House Dental Practice more highly for their professional and caring manner.” RS

Benefits of root canal treatment

Root canal treatment:

• returns your teeth to a healthier condition where inflammation and or infection is less likely to return
• restores existing teeth so that they do not have to be removed through extraction
• saves a tooth that may be used as a support for bridges or dentures

Signs of pulp damage may include:

• pain
• prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
• discoloration of the tooth
• swelling or tenderness of the overlying gums
• a bad taste in the mouth.

On the other hand, there may be no symptoms at all. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can eventually cause pain, swelling and loss of the supporting bone.

Root canal treatment procedures are relatively comfortable and often painless as the tooth is anaesthetised during treatment. After treatment, the tooth may be sensitive or tender for a few days due to inflammation of the surrounding tissues. Taking over-the-counter painkillers can relieve this discomfort. However, if the pain persists and is severe, or a swelling occurs, you should contact us immediately.

The dentists at Church House Dental Practice are experienced in providing simple and complex root canal procedures and we can provide sedation for very nervous patients. Should you require more information about tooth infections or root canal treatment, contact us on 01273 453229 or book online for an appointment.

FAQs

What is the reason dental pulp becomes infected or inflamed?

Tooth decay, cracks, large fillings, trauma or even tooth wear can sometimes cause irreversible damage to the dental pulp.

How long does root treatment take?

A routine root canal treatment can take between 1.5 and 2 hours.

How long will the tooth last?

The success rates for root canal treatment is in the region of 80%- 95%. The success depends on firstly being able to access the canals and secondly on the ability to disinfect the entire length of the root canals. In some cases this is not possible due to the extent of the infection, technical difficulties and complications. Provided the tooth is fully restored, it should last for many years.