Even with the best oral hygiene in place tooth decay can still occur. If the decay begins deep within the tooth it can be hard to spot until it has progressed to the external tooth surface. This could mean that it has infected the internal structure of the tooth. When this occurs the only option is root canal treatment as antibiotics cannot treat infection that is inside the tooth.

What is root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is performed when the internal ‘living’ section of the tooth has become damaged, decayed or severely infected. The tooth will be drilled, as per a normal filling, but this will continue until the soft living pulp of the tooth is exposed. The pulp is then removed and the cavity washed out to ensure all traces of decay and infection are removed. It is then filled and sealed to prevent further infection. The tooth will then either have a standard filling to complete the treatment or a crown may be fitted.

How can this treatment save my smile?

If left untreated the end result will be that the decayed or infected tooth will have to be removed. In some cases the infection can spread to the neighbouring teeth, so it is never wise to leave a tooth untreated. By undergoing root canal treatment the dentist can save the natural tooth and with it your smile. It is common for teeth that have had this treatment to appear darker than the others. This can easily be countered by means of bleaching so that it blends in with the healthy teeth.

What happens if the infection returns?

This infection in the tooth should return the treatment can be repeated, however it is rarely needed as root canal treatment is highly successful.