Root canal treatment, symptoms and how it works
A root canal involves the dentist removing the soft contents of the tooth and filling the root canals with an artificial material. When the nerve of the tooth becomes inflamed or infected, root canal treatment is often the best way to save the tooth. The treatment removes the damaged tissue, stops the infection and preserves the function of the tooth.
"We focus on making root canal treatment as painless, accurate and safe as possible - so you can keep your tooth for life." - says Arman Ostovan, Chief Dentist at Dentme
What is a root canal?
A root canal involves removing the pulp of the tooth - the innermost part with nerves and blood vessels. After the root canals are cleaned, they are filled with a dense material that prevents bacteria from re-entering. This allows the tooth to be retained for many years, often for life.
When is a root canal needed? Root canal treatment may be necessary if:
-Caries has reached the pulp of the tooth
- Tooth damaged by impact or fracture
- A tooth infection or abscess has occurred
- Old fillings have leaked in bacteria
- The tooth is dead or discolored
Common symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal are
- Fire rings
- Persistent toothache
- Increased sensitivity to heat or cold
-Bad taste in the mouth or warping
Treating the tooth quickly reduces the risk of complications such as infection in the jawbone.
How does a root canal treatment work?
Treatment takes place in several stages and usually takes between 1 and 3 visits depending on the condition of the tooth:
1. Examination and X-ray
The dentist examines the tooth and takes X-rays to assess the shape and depth of the root canal.
2. Stunning and isolation
You will be given a local anesthetic. The tooth is isolated with a rubber dam to keep the area clean.
3. cleaning of root canals
Inflamed or infected tissue is removed. The root canals are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, sometimes using a microscope for greater precision.
4. Filling and sealing
The canals are filled with a bacteria-proof material (often gutta-percha). The tooth is then sealed with a filling or, if necessary, a crown to strengthen the tooth.
Does it hurt to do a root canal?
The treatment is always done under anesthesia and is usually painless. Afterwards, you may feel a slight soreness that normally goes away within a few days with the help of over-the-counter painkillers.
How long does a root canal last?
A root canal can last for many years, often for life, especially if you
- Have good oral hygiene
- Avoiding chewing hard on the tooth
- Regular visits to the dentist
Teeth that have been root filled are often more fragile because the tooth lacks blood supply after the procedure. This is why a dental crown is sometimes recommended to protect against fractures.
What does a root canal cost?
At Dentme, you get root canal treatment at a cost price of SEK 3,990, this price includes Examination, planning, emergency treatment and execution of the root canal.
In some rare cases, a referral to an endodontic specialist may be needed.
- Location of the tooth (incisor or molar)
- Number of root canals (incisors usually have one canal, molars may have several)
- If a crown is required afterwards
- Dentists' fees
The Price is usually between SEK 6 000 and 15 000. You will always receive a cost estimate at the time of the Examination.
Alternatives to root canal treatment If the tooth cannot be saved, or if you decide against root canal treatment, there are alternatives:
- Tooth extraction - the tooth is removed
- Dental implant - an artificial root attachment inserted into the jawbone
- Post or bridge - replacing the lost tooth
Your dentist will always go through all the options with you before making a decision.
Sources used by Dentme:
1177 Vårdguiden - Root canal treatment
https://www.1177.se/undersokning-behandling/tandvard/rotfyllning/
https://www.1177.se/sjukdomar--besvar/mun-och-tander/tander/tandvark/
Tandläkartidningen - Risks and results of root canal treatment
https://www.tandlakartidningen.se/arkivet/nyhet/rotfyllningar-behover-foljup/
Colgate Professional - Root Canal Treatment Explained
https://www.colgateprofessional.com/dental-resources/patient-education/root-canal-treatmen
American Association of Endodontists (AAE) - Root Canal Treatment
https://www.aae.org/patients/root-canal-treatment/1177+51177+51177+5
American Association of Endodontists (AAE) - Root Canal Explained
https://www.aae.org/patients/root-canal-treatment/what-is-a-root-canal/root-canal-explained/
European Society of Endodontology (ESE) - Patient Resources
https://www.e-s-e.eu/for-patients/patient-resources/
European Society of Endodontology (ESE) - Benefits of Endodontic Therapies
https://www.e-s-e.eu/for-patients/benefits-of-endodontic-therapies/
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