Root Canal the Isle of Man

What do I need to know, and what are my options?

What is the procedure of a root canal, and what are the steps in a root canal in one visit typically?

Root canal procedures are essential for saving teeth that have been infected or damaged. In some cases, this procedure can be completed in a single visit, while in others, it may require multiple appointments. Let’s explore the typical steps involved in a one-visit root canal procedure.

Step 1: Examination and Diagnosis.

To determine the extent of the infection or damage, our experienced dentist will conduct a thorough examination and diagnosis. This may involve X-rays to assess the condition of the tooth and surrounding tissues.

Step 2: Anesthesia for Comfort

Prior to commencing the procedure, our dentist will ensure your comfort by administering local anesthesia to numb the area surrounding the affected tooth.

Step 3: Accessing the Pulp Chamber.

Using precise techniques, our dentist will create a small access hole in the tooth, granting access to the pulp chamber. This step involves drilling a small hole on the tooth’s surface.

Step 4: Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canal.

With specialized instruments, our dentist will meticulously clean the infected or damaged pulp from the root canal. Additionally, they will shape the canal, preparing it for the subsequent filling.

Step 5: Filling the Root Canal.

Once the canal is thoroughly cleaned and shaped, our dentist will fill it with gutta-percha, a rubber-like material. This filling material effectively seals the canal, preventing further infection and damage.

Step 6: Restoring the Tooth.

To protect the treated tooth from potential damage, our dentist will restore it by placing a filling or crown. This restoration ensures the tooth’s structural integrity and enhances its appearance.

Step 7: Follow-up Appointment.

To monitor the healing progress and address any concerns, our dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment. Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities.

In certain cases, root canal procedures may involve additional steps due to complications or the presence of a challenging infection.

What are the Risks and Complications?

While the procedure is generally safe, complications can occur during or after the treatment. Below is a short list and explanation of some of the most common complications that can occur during and after a root canal or endodontic treatment.

1. Pain: Pain is a common complication after root canal treatment. The tooth may be sensitive to touch, biting, or chewing. This is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
2. Swelling: Swelling may occur in the gums around the treated tooth. This can be caused by infection or inflammation and may require antibiotics to resolve.
3. Infection: Although root canal treatment is designed to remove all the infected tissue, bacteria may still be present in the tooth or surrounding tissues. This can cause an infection, which may require antibiotics or further treatment.
4. Nerve damage: Nerve damage can occur during the procedure if the dentist accidentally damages the nerves in the tooth. This can cause numbness or tingling in the tongue or lips, which usually resolves over time.
5. Instrument fracture: During the procedure, instruments may break and become lodged in the root canal. This can cause further damage to the tooth or surrounding tissues and may require surgical removal.
6. Perforation: Perforation is a rare complication when the dentist accidentally creates a hole in the root canal or the tooth. This can cause pain, infection, and further damage to the tooth. Further treatment or extraction may be required
7. Failure of the treatment: In some cases, root canal treatment may fail to resolve the problem. This can be due to incomplete removal of infected tissue, a missed canal, or a cracked or fractured tooth.
8. Re-infection: After the treatment, bacteria may re-enter the tooth, causing further infection. This can occur due to a loose filling, crown, or poor oral hygiene.
9. Tooth discolouration: The tooth may become discoloured after root canal treatment, caused by the remaining dead tissue or the filling material used in the procedure.
10. Crown or filling dislodgment: After root canal treatment, the tooth may become weakened, and the crown or filling may become loose or dislodged, causing further damage to the tooth

While root canal or endodontic treatment is generally safe and effective, complications can occur during or after the procedure. Patients should be aware of these potential complications and discuss them with their dentist before undergoing treatment. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can also help prevent complications and ensure the success of the treatment. As a professional endodontic treatment provider we have completed many treatments and used our expertise to create a guide to root canal treatment, which covers all you need to know if you’re considering it.

At Tracey Bell, We usually complete this in 1 visit with the use of a microscope and specialised equipment

Dr James Garritt holds a Masters in ENDODONTICS from Chester University

While some cases may require multiple visits, a single-visit root canal can be completed in one appointment, provided that the tooth and surrounding tissues are in good condition.

In deciding and consent to a root canal, know the risks, understand the benefits, know the tooth can be restored and the materials to be used – then make your decision upon if you choose to have the treatment.