Root Canal Treatment At Your Dentist In Epsom – 6 Steps

A simple explanation of this often misunderstood treatment.

Visitors to The Clock Tower Dental Clinic often tell us that the procedure that concerns them the most is the root canal procedure. This probably comes as no surprise to our readers who may have heard horror stories about this particular treatment which likely arise from a time before modern equipment and anaesthetics became available.

Unfortunately, the root canal procedure is one of the most misunderstood treatments and is certainly nothing to be feared. In today’s blog, we explain to our Epsom patients, in layman’s terms, what actually happens during this procedure, in easy steps.

Check up and x-rays

The first step is, of course, to diagnose the problem. This is done using x-rays so that we can see the inner canals of the tooth where any infection may be present. This is also an important stage as we check for the presence of any abscesses. If any are found, they will be treated before the procedure can go ahead.

Anaesthetic

As with any invasive procedure, a local anaesthetic is given to minimise any potential discomfort. We can administer this using ‘The Wand’, a much more comfortable way of delivering anaesthetic than traditional methods. We will check to make sure that it has taken effect fully before we start the procedure.

Accessing the root canals

In order to treat the root canals, it is sometimes necessary to remove the top section of the tooth. Your local anaesthetic will ensure that this will be as comfortable as possible and will allow our dentists to proceed to restore the tooth.

Removal of infected material

Before restoring the tooth, it is necessary to make sure that the hollow canals are thoroughly cleaned. Some of the infected material can be removed using a suction tool, followed by manual cleaning using precision files. To ensure that all bacteria is removed, the hollow canals are then cleaned with an antibacterial agent before the canals are filled.

Filling the canals

Unlike regular filings, a special type, known as gutta percha (a natural type of rubber)  is used to fill the treated and hollow canals. This is used as it is the most effective sealant for this type of treatment. A sealing cement will then be used to protect it.

Completing the tooth

Sometimes the treatment concludes there, but more typically a dental crown is applied to restore strength and appearance to the treated tooth.

Hopefully this helps our Epsom patients understand that a root canal procedure is not to be feared. However, if you are still concerned, our team are always happy to discuss the use of sedation as an option for this treatment. For more information about this or any other treatment that we offer at The Clock Tower Dental Clinic, please call our reception team on 01372 720136.