Root Canal Treatment at Polygems Dental Care

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that aims to save a tooth that is infected or damaged by removing the inflamed or infected pulp inside the tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue that contains nerves and blood vessels that supply the tooth. When the pulp becomes infected, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the bone and surrounding tissues and lead to tooth loss.

Root canal treatment involves cleaning and shaping the root canal system, which consists of the pulp chamber and the canals that extend from the roots of the tooth. The dentist will use special instruments to remove the infected pulp and disinfect the root canal system. Then, the dentist will fill and seal the root canal system with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. Finally, the dentist will restore the tooth with a filling or a crown to protect it from further damage.

Why Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?

You may need root canal treatment if you have any of these signs or symptoms:

• Severe toothache that worsens when you bite or chew
• Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
• Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
• Swelling or tenderness of the gums around the tooth
• A pimple-like bump on the gums near the tooth
• Fever, headache, or general malaise

The most common cause of pulp infection is tooth decay that reaches the pulp. Other causes include cracks or chips in the tooth, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, trauma to the tooth, or gum disease.

How is Root Canal Treatment Performed?

Root canal treatment usually requires one or two visits to Polygems Dental Care. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which means you will not feel any pain during the treatment. The steps involved in root canal treatment are:

• The dentist will examine your tooth and take an X-ray to assess the extent of the infection and plan the treatment.
• The dentist will isolate your tooth with a rubber dam to keep it dry and prevent contamination.
• The dentist will make a small opening on the top of your tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
• The dentist will use special files to remove the infected pulp and shape the root canals.
• The dentist will flush and irrigate the root canal system with antiseptic solutions to eliminate any remaining bacteria and debris.
• The dentist will fill and seal the root canal system with gutta-percha and an adhesive cement.
• The dentist will place a temporary filling on your tooth to close the opening until your next visit.
• If your tooth is severely damaged or weakened, you may need a crown to restore its strength and appearance. The dentist will take an impression of your tooth and send it to a dental laboratory where your crown will be made. You will return for another visit to have your crown fitted and cemented on your tooth.

What are the Benefits and Risks of Root Canal Treatment?

The benefits of root canal treatment are:

• It relieves your pain and discomfort caused by pulp infection.
• It preserves your natural tooth and prevents extraction.
• It prevents further infection and damage to your bone and surrounding tissues.
• It restores your chewing function and smile.

The risks of root canal treatment are:

• There may be some post-operative pain, swelling, or sensitivity for a few days after the treatment. This can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers and ice packs.
• There may be some complications during or after the treatment, such as bleeding, infection, perforation, instrument breakage, or incomplete cleaning or filling of the root canal system. These can be treated with additional procedures or medications.
• There may be some failure or recurrence of infection in some cases, which may require retreatment or extraction of the tooth.

How Much Does Root Canal Treatment Cost?

The cost of root canal treatment depends on several factors, such as:

• The location and number of teeth that need treatment
• The complexity and length of the procedure
• The type of restoration (filling or crown) that is needed
• The experience and qualifications of the dentist

Can I Use MediSave to Pay for Root Canal Treatment?

No, you cannot use MediSave for Root Canal Treatment. However, for Root Canal Surgery, you can use MediSave.

Can I Use CHAS, Mederka Generation or Pioneer Generation for Root Canal Treatment?

Yes, you can. For more information, head to www.chas.sg

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about root canal treatment:

Is root canal treatment painful?

No, root canal treatment is not painful as it is done under local anesthesia. You may feel some pressure or vibration during the procedure, but you will not feel any pain. After the treatment, you may have some mild pain or discomfort for a few days, which can be relieved with painkillers and ice packs.

How long does root canal treatment take?

The duration of root canal treatment depends on the number and location of teeth that need treatment, the complexity of the case, and the type of restoration that is needed. Generally, root canal treatment takes one or two visits to complete. Each visit may last from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

How long does a root canal treated tooth last?

A root canal treated tooth can last for many years or even a lifetime if it is properly cared for. You need to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning. You also need to avoid biting on hard foods or objects that may damage your tooth or restoration.

What are the alternatives to root canal treatment?

The only alternative to root canal treatment is extraction of the infected tooth. However, this is not recommended as it will result in the loss of your natural tooth and may cause other problems, such as shifting of adjacent teeth, bone loss, difficulty chewing, and changes in your bite and appearance. You may also need to replace your missing tooth with an implant, bridge, or denture, which may be more costly and complex than root canal treatment.

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