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Endodontics / Root Canal

What is a Root Canal ?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure aimed at saving a severely damaged or infected tooth. When a tooth’s pulp (the innermost part containing nerves and blood vessels) becomes infected due to decay, trauma, or other factors, a dentist assesses the situation.

Common symptoms include severe toothache, swelling, and sensitivity to hot or cold. During the root canal procedure, the dentist numbs the affected tooth, removes the infected pulp, thoroughly cleans and shapes the root canals, and places a biocompatible material (usually gutta-percha) inside to seal them. Local anesthesia ensures a painless experience. The access opening is temporarily sealed, allowing the surrounding tissues to heal.

Finally, a permanent crown or restoration is placed to protect the tooth and restore its function. Root canal treatment offers benefits such as pain relief, tooth preservation, and a natural appearance. Aftercare involves maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups to monitor the tooth’s health. Remember, if you suspect any dental issues, consult your dentist promptly! 🦷

Why You Need Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is essential when the pulp (the innermost part) of your tooth becomes inflamed or infected. Several factors can lead to this condition:Deep Decay: Extensive tooth decay can penetrate the enamel and dentin, reaching the pulp. The resulting infection causes pain and discomfort.Repeated Dental Procedures: Multiple dental treatments on the same tooth can weaken the pulp over time. Weakened pulp becomes susceptible to infection.Faulty Crowns: If a dental crown doesn’t fit properly or develops issues, it can lead to inflammation within the pulp. A compromised crown may allow bacteria to infiltrate the tooth.Cracks or Chips: Even if there are no visible cracks or chips, trauma to the tooth (due to injury or biting forces) can damage the pulp. Microscopic cracks can provide an entry point for bacteria.Without timely treatment, these issues can escalate, causing severe pain and potentially leading to tooth loss. Root canal treatment aims to save the tooth by removing the infected pulp, disinfecting the canals, and sealing the tooth to prevent reinfection. If you experience toothache or suspect any of these conditions, seek professional advice promptly.

Should I have a Root Canal or Extraction?

When faced with the decision between a root canal and extraction, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of each option. Root canal treatment involves removing the diseased pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting it, and then filling and sealing it.

This procedure preserves the natural tooth structure, provides relief from pain or discomfort caused by infection, and avoids the need for extensive restorative treatments like bridges or implants. On the other hand, tooth extraction completely removes the tooth and its attachment from the socket.

While it effectively eliminates pain and infection, it has downsides: missing spaces can affect your bite alignment and smile, and replacing the tooth requires additional visits and procedures. In most cases, opting for a root canal is less expensive and allows you to keep your original tooth intact. Remember, nothing looks, feels, or functions like a natural tooth

Why antibiotics won’t do the job and you need a root canal treatment or endodontics

When faced with the dilemma of an infected root canal, the question often arises: Can antibiotics alone cure the infection?
The answer lies in understanding the intricacies of dental science. Antibiotics, while effective against bacterial invaders, cannot reach the inside of the tooth or penetrate the roots where the problem lies.

Once the infection has reached the roots, the blood vessels with antibacterial defenses have already been destroyed, rendering antibiotics insufficient. While they may offer temporary relief by suppressing the infection, they do not eliminate the underlying cause.

Therefore, relying solely on antibiotics is not a definitive solution for a tooth that unequivocally requires a root canal. Root canal treatment, or endodontics, becomes essential to address the infection comprehensively and preserve the natural tooth structure. Empower yourself with this knowledge to make informed decisions about your oral health journey.

Do I need a crown after root canal treatment

After undergoing a root canal, the necessity for a crown hinges on several critical factors. First, consider the tooth condition: A root canal effectively eradicates infection and salvages a tooth from further harm. However, decay or cracks can compromise the tooth’s structural integrity. If more than half of the tooth structure is lost, dental professionals often recommend a crown to restore its strength.

Next, the location of the tooth plays a significant role. Rear molars (back teeth) endure significant chewing forces. Placing a crown on a molar after a root canal significantly improves its chances of lasting.
Front teeth (incisors and canines) may not always require crowns, especially if they’re not subjected to heavy biting forces. However, your dentist will assess each case individually.

Lastly, a crown serves as a protective shield for a fragile tooth, reducing the risk of fractures or cracks. Additionally, it enhances the tooth’s appearance and minimizes sensitivity.

In summary, while some patients may not need a crown, it’s crucial to discuss restoration options with your dental care provider. A properly treated and restored tooth can endure just as long as your natural teeth. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular check-ups to ensure the success of your root canal treatment.

What happens during the procedure?

1. Diagnosis and Assessment:

Your dentist or endodontist initiates the process by taking dental X-rays. These X-rays help evaluate the affected tooth thoroughly.

The dental professional examines the X-rays to identify any signs of dead, infected, or inflamed pulp within the tooth.

Sensitivity tests, such as tapping the tooth or using hot/cold substances, aid in confirming whether a root canal is necessary.

2. Anesthesia and Isolation:

Local anesthesia is administered to numb the infected tooth and the surrounding gum tissue. This ensures that you remain comfortable during the procedure.

A rubber dam is placed around the tooth. This isolation technique keeps the tooth dry and free from saliva, allowing for precise work.

3. Pulp Removal:

The dentist or endodontist accesses the pulp chamber (the inner part of the tooth) through a small opening created in the crown of the tooth.

The infected pulp is meticulously removed. This step eliminates the source of infection.

The inside of the root canal is then thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to ensure that no bacteria remain.

4. Shaping and Filling:

Specialized instruments are used to shape the root canals. The goal is to create space for the filling material.

  Gutta-percha, a rubber-like material, is placed into the cleaned canals. It serves as a sealant, preventing reinfection.

Achieving a tight seal is crucial to prevent bacteria from re-entering the tooth.

5. Restoration:

After completing the root canal, a temporary filling or crown is placed over the access opening. This protects the tooth until the final restoration.

  In some cases, a permanent crown is recommended. A crown strengthens the tooth and restores its function, especially if significant tooth structure was lost.

Remember, root canals are typically painless procedures, and they play a vital role in saving natural teeth from extraction. Proper care after the treatment ensures successful recovery and long-term tooth health.

Understanding Root Canal Treatment

A root canal is a dental procedure aimed at saving a tooth that has severe infection or damage within its pulp (the innermost part of the tooth). Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy. Here’s what typically happens during the treatment:

What happens after the treatment?

1. Diagnosis:
 When a tooth’s pulp (the innermost part containing nerves and blood vessels) becomes infected due to decay, trauma, or other factors, a dentist assesses the situation. Common symptoms include severe toothache, swelling, and sensitivity to hot or cold.

2. Procedure:

 The dentist numbs the affected tooth and removes the infected pulp.

 The root canals are thoroughly cleaned, shaped, and disinfected.

A biocompatible material (usually gutta-percha) is placed inside the canals to seal them.

The access opening is sealed with a temporary filling or crown.

3. Healing and Restoration:

Over time, the tooth heals, and the surrounding tissues recover.

– A permanent crown or restoration is placed to protect the tooth and restore its function.

4. Benefits:

 Pain Relief: Root canals alleviate pain caused by infection.

These untreated canals can harbor bacteria and cause problems later.

 Identifying and treating missed canals may require specialized techniques and expertise.

5. Inadequate Restoration:

 After a root canal, a temporary filling or crown is placed over the access opening.

 Tooth Preservation: The treated tooth remains functional, avoiding extraction.

  Natural Appearance: Crowns restore aesthetics and chewing ability.

6. Aftercare:

 Maintain good oral hygiene.

-Attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the tooth’s health.

 
Remember, root canal treatment is a valuable option for preserving teeth and relieving pain. If you suspect any dental issues, consult your dentist promptly!

Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?

Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure, and the perception of pain associated with it can vary from person to person. Let’s explore this in more detail:

1. During the Procedure:

– Local Anesthesia: Before starting the root canal, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding area. This ensures that you don’t feel pain during the procedure.

– Minimal Discomfort: While you may feel pressure or mild discomfort, the actual treatment should not be painful. The dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans the canals, and seals them.

2. After the Procedure:

 Post-Root Canal Discomfort: Some patients experience mild soreness or sensitivity after the anesthesia wears off. This is normal and usually subsides within a few days.

  Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen) can help manage any discomfort.

– Avoid Chewing on the Treated Tooth: To prevent aggravating the area, avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration (crown) is placed.

3. Long-Term Benefits:

By saving the tooth, it prevents the need for extraction and maintains your natural smile.

Remember that advances in dental techniques and anesthesia have significantly improved the root canal experience. If you have concerns or experience persistent pain, consult your dentist promptly. Remember, root canal treatment is a valuable option for preserving teeth and relieving pain. If you suspect any dental issues, consult your dentist promptly!

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Bella grace Lennie
19:30 09 Apr 25
My daughter started her alignment treatment around 18 weeks ago, Tomas clinic have been incredible from the start.The staff are all lovely and very welcoming and the practice is so beautiful it's not like your average dentist it's very classy.
Dominic Dawes
15:00 03 Apr 25
Originally found the Tomas Dental Clinic through Groupon for a scale and polish due to not being able to get into my own dentist during Covid fast forward a few years and Tomas Dental Clinic have been supporting me ever since, in their modern spa like facility which helped me get over my fear of outdated dentist.I would recommend their services to anyone who’s looking for an alternative high class experience at fair price, after all you get what you pay for and I never felt satisfied following my rushed NHS appointments which are now a thing of the past for me.
Katie Hammond
17:17 21 Mar 25
Gorgeous clinic with friendly staff, super professional & can’t do enough for you!!! Special shoutout to Freya & Rosita who made me feel so comfortable.Highly recommend!!!
Mariam Nadeem
11:28 20 Mar 25
Thank you to all the team at Tomas Clinic. You have been great, from the start to the finish of my treatment. I am so pleased with my new smile.
Jenna Howard
11:30 18 Mar 25
Recently visited Tomas Clinic and from start to finish the service was beyond excellent. Dr Andre made me feel very relaxed when I came, and I was really satisfied with his work. Both nurses Laura & Mia were so lovely to deal with. The practice itself is beautiful and I’m really happy with my treatments, thank you!
Mabrŕr84
20:47 10 Mar 25
Avoid! Avoid! Or attend at own risk[Respond to the Clinic's reply]Futher to your reply, I made it clear I did not trust any of your hygienist due to the initial poor cleaning procedure. My second appointment had left me with continuous pain cause by Andre "the director" which I have already mentioned in my formal complaint email to you .Paid in full? You refunded my £63 which was charge extra whilst on the treatment chair , the dishonesty is the reason why I never wanted to deal with Tomas Clinic any more.[Original review]I do not recommend. Went to this clinic as they had an offer!Be aware they will try and charge you full price by lying about extra work required once you're on the chair, found them dodgy, poor clean up process , rushed and only to find out ot wasn't done properly.All this 5 start reviews ain't genuine, how can all this people have a positive experience only I to go there and get a terrible procedure? I regret getting in touch with them! Not for me. English dentist going forward!
Zaid Kazi
14:02 28 Jan 25
I couldn’t be happier with my experience at Tomas Clinic! The entire team is professional, welcoming, and truly goes above and beyond to ensure I felt comfortable. A special mention to Laura, their treatment coordinator, who was absolutely amazing with me. She explained every step of the process clearly, answered all my questions and made me feel completely at ease. Thanks to her and the team’s incredible care, my treatment went smoothly and the results were so much better than I expected. I highly recommend the clinic to anyone looking for exceptional dental care!
A Rob
19:43 06 Jan 25
OMG, Neeve is an absolute miracle worker! I had tar and coffee stains on my teeth for over a decade, and I genuinely thought nothing could fix them. But the job she did was nothing short of mind-blowing! My teeth look whiter than I ever imagined possible, and I can't stop smiling. She transformed my confidence in just one session. The attention to detail, care, and skill she demonstrated were unmatched. This is hands-down the best dental experience I've ever had. eeve, you’re a true artist—thank you for giving me my smile back! Highly, highly recommend!I may got the name wrong but yeah. She and her team did pro work am super happy. Will recommend.Professional job a+
Anisa Jabbar
03:08 25 Dec 24
Had an amazing experience at Tomas Dental Clinic! Every single member of staff is so lovely and friendly I always left my appointments feeling happy and cared for. Both Dr Andre and Dr Faraz take pride in their work and their dedication really shows through their work ????
Kat Freeman
19:34 26 Nov 24
The clinic provided a really high quality stress free service. Laura was really good in arranging everything and made everything go smoothly
Matt Trybull
19:29 26 Nov 24
Tomas Clinic have been nothing but amazing in their service and support. Apart from just high quality treatments - their attention of customer service and making every visit or enquiry just a really helpful smooth and easy process. Special shoutout to Laura who has been amazing in arranging all my appointments (particularly the ones at super short notice) and answering the hundreds of questions I would have - it was really nice to have someone to explain and reassure during my implant treatment. I would strongly recommend making Tomas clinic your new dentist
Immediate Cleans
12:16 18 Nov 24
What a pleasant experience. The hygienist named Niamh was so considerate, lots of knowledge, her delivery was of a pristine level .. I thought I was seeing a hygienist but her quality of service supersedes the best dentist in the world.No pain experienced throughout the whole treatment unlike other dentist ..Highly recommended and most definitely will be back asap.The receptionist named Laura is also extremely helpful , understanding and literally deserves 2 promotions.
Suely Vieira
19:07 15 Nov 24
Perfect thanks
Andrew Michael Grogan
17:12 25 Oct 24
Excellent experience. Everyone was so professional and clear about the services offered and the experience was easy and painless. My hygienist gave excellent advice and answered all my questions thoroughly.
Moisés indequi
12:02 04 Oct 24
It was amazing the service we received on the clinic. Initially the appointment was only for my son and after I sow how the handle everything just make me trust in this clinic and I have booked my appointment for cleaning next day and was very good. Staff very friendly and the dentist with massive experience on the fieldwork!Highly recommended.
David Smith
09:57 24 Sep 24
I have always received exceptional service from the team at Tomas Dental Clinic. Laura was highly competent and friendly when guiding me through my Invisalign journey during my initial meetings.My Invisalign results have been great, whilst Chloe and Laura have continued to offer great customer service with their organisational attentiveness and friendly approach.Would recommend to all.
Gustavs Stutins
11:25 23 Sep 24
Really great and friendly staffVery professional and high quality
I was coming in for a treatment and treatment coordinator laura did an amazing job at explaining the procedure. Chloe on reception was efficient and very chatty. As I was a bit nervous in the surgery , mia provided amazing patient care so afterwards I felt at ease and will definitely come back for future appointments!
Candice Lin
12:53 16 Sep 24
I had a really good experience at Tomas Dental Clinic. The location is convenient and easy to find. The clinic has a modern and cozy atmosphere. My appointment was on time, and the dentist provided additional helpful advice and was very considerate. I would definitely recommend it to others and will be returning myself.
Prince Haffner
10:29 14 Sep 24
The service was fantastic. Would definitely recommend and this will %100 be my go to Dental clinic forever. The teeth whitening went way above my expectations. Please try them out.
Jack C
16:52 13 Sep 24
I recently had a gap in my tooth closed and a few dental cleans done here. The whole team is so lovely and welcoming. Every visit has been a pleasure, and I always feel at ease in their care. I actually enjoy coming here, which says a lot about how great they are.
Rushi Aleema
21:00 03 Sep 24
I had a wonderful experience via this Groupon deal today. I was warmly greeted at the lovely reception area. And made to feel welcome. The booking was so easy, I got the cancellation arranged for my appointment slot for the scale & polish, using my voucher.Don't hesitate. The reviews were right.Suzie (& the other lady, a lovely Dental Hygienist) were so quick to put me at ease. They answered queries. And offered after care advice & support, and samples to help. I felt really looked after, and my teeth were sparkling in way less than 30 minutes (!) I had no idea it could happen so quick & without pain. I was laughing away during the end of the treatment, after being nervous before. My smile looks great. My tooth scaling was much needed, but nervousness had caused me to leave after a check up before at another private clinic. Not here 🙂 Thanks so much!
Alfie Hughes
18:39 14 Jun 24
I’m currently receiving Invisalign treatment with Tomas Dental and the whole experience has been unmatched. I have never seen such a beautiful practice that also makes you feel so welcome and comfortable. Every member of staff is so kind and friendly and you really do feel welcome when you visit.Not only do they carry such professionalism but also go to great lengths to help me reschedule and change appointments (on the occasions I really have to) to fit my busy schedule and nothing is ever an issue. I plan on coming to Tomas Dental for the foreseeable and cannot recommend enough.☺️

Reasons to choose Tomas Dental Clinic

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