Your dentist has diagnosed inflammation of one or more root canals. The recommendation is a root canal treatment. At The Delft Dental Practice, we feel it is important that you fully understand what the advised treatment entails, the possible consequences and your alternatives.
What is root canal treatment?
In the roots of your teeth runs the root canal: in it are nerve fibers and small blood vessels. This is called the pulp. The pulp can become inflamed. If this infection persists for a long time, the jawbone around the teeth can become inflamed and partially lost. If this happens, teeth can become loose and eventually fall out. To prevent the tooth from having to be pulled, it is important to clean the root inside. First, an opening is drilled into the root canal. In the process, existing fillings and crowns must be removed. The root canals are then thoroughly cleaned and filled. Finally, the treated tooth is restored, with a filling or crown (sometimes the old crown can be reused) and possibly a post construction. X-rays are important for monitoring.
How long does the treatment last?
The duration of treatment depends on the number of roots and root canals. Teeth usually have one root; molars often have more. Depending on the number of root canals, treatment time ranges from half an hour to two hours.
Is the treatment painful?
The treatment takes place under local anesthesia. Usually, the anesthesia will make the existing pain disappear immediately.
Does the treatment cause post-treatment pain?
After cleaning the canals, some post-operative pain may occur. This usually does not last long and is easily suppressed with a common painkiller. In case of unexpected swelling or severe pain or if the pain has not gone away after a week, contact your practice.
Are there any potential complications?
- It may happen that the inflammation does not disappear and returns. The dentist then considers whether the root canal treatment should be performed again or whether surgical intervention should be performed or whether the tooth should still be pulled.
- If prior to treatment the crown or post must be removed it is often damaged beyond repair, meaning that in the future the crown or post must be replaced.
- A tooth can be damaged during treatment or weakened and broken after treatment. The tooth then needs to be restored.
- During treatment, instruments may break off in the root canal.
- Perforations (unintentional openings to gums or jawbone) can also occur.
- In rare cases, a flushing agent is squeezed through, possibly causing pain/swelling.
Are there alternative treatment options and what happens if you are not treated?
- Waiting for clearer symptoms. In doing so, you run the risk of the inflammation spreading, further weakening the tooth, possibly affecting other teeth or jawbone.
- In some cases, an apex resection might be a solution. This involves removing the tip of the root and a bit of the surrounding tissue.
- Extraction of the tooth or molar.
If left untreated and the infection persists, the jawbone around the teeth can become inflamed and partially lost. If that happens, teeth and molars can become loose and eventually fall out.
Are you prescribed medication?
Sometimes medications (usually antibiotics or painkillers) are prescribed to control infection or pain.
- Some of the above medications can cause allergic reactions such as skin rashes or gastrointestinal disorders. Medications can also affect driving ability.
- In case of side effects, you should contact the practice. It is your responsibility to report any change in your medical condition to the practice so that they can provide the most optimal medication.
Any questions?
It is important to us that your questions are answered before treatment takes place. If you still have questions, you can always contact the reception desk of your practice and, if desired, an additional consultation appointment can be made before treatment. You can also visit our website www.ddtp.nl for more detailed information about root canal treatment.
Sincerely,
The Delft Dental Practice
0152023397
receptie@ddtp.nl