Teeth have several layers. The outside layer of the tooth is composed of a hard layer called Enamel. Enamel is supported by an inner layer called Dentin, which has at its centre a soft tissue known as the Pulp.

The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue that are responsible for forming the surrounding Dentin and Enamel during tooth development. The pulp receives its nourishment supply from vessels which enter the end of the root. Although the pulp is important during development of the tooth, it is not necessary for function of the tooth. The tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it even after the pulp is removed.

A root canal treatment typically requires one or more appointment visits.

Prior to root canal treatment a radiograph is taken to see the shape of the roots and to determine if there are any signs of inflammation in the surrounding bone. Local anaesthesia is used to numb the area.

Next, a dental dam is placed around the tooth to keep the area dry and free of saliva during treatment. An access hole is drilled into the tooth, this is typically done with the use of a dental operating microscope, to help locate all the root canals whilst keeping tooth removal to an absolute minimum.

This is followed by the removal of infected nerve tissue and related debris from inside the root canals.

The cleaning out process is accomplished using root canal files and rotary instruments. The canals maybe as narrow as 0.05mm in diameter and so a series of these files of increasing diameter are each subsequently placed inside the root canals and worked down to the full length (determined by an electronic apex locator) in order to shape the canals.

The shaping facilitates irrigation with Sodium hypochlorite and other disinfectant solutions, which are used periodically to flush away the debris and to eliminate any bacteria that remain inside the canals. Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned it maybe possible to have the treatment completed in a single visit, otherwise a medication is placed inside the tooth and a temporary filling is placed in the access hole to keep out contaminants (like saliva and food) between appointments.

At the next appointment, to fill the interior of the root canals, a sealer paste and an inert root filling material called gutta-percha is placed using advanced thermal techniques. The entrance of the root canals are sealed with an anti-bacterial filling ensuring a good seal.

To fill the exterior access hole created at the beginning of treatment, a temporary filling is placed and an appointment is made with your dentist for the permanent restoration. In some instances your dentist may request that we place the permanent restoration inside the tooth.

For a significant number of teeth, in particular heavily filled posterior teeth, a crown, crown and post, or other such type restoration is required to protect the tooth, preventing it from breaking, and restoring it to full function.  The crown is a treatment that your dentist will be able to help you with.  We will always advise you if this is required at the consultation appointment.