Root Canal Treatments

Sometimes a tooth is so badly decayed or infected that a treatment known as a root canal filling is needed to save the tooth.

A root canal filling is an alternative to tooth extraction and is a treatment from a part of dentistry known as endodontics and requires a dentist with advanced training and skill in this area.

At Six Gables Dental Practice, our Principal Dentist Huw Bowen has a special interest in Endodontics and besides extensive experience in this area has completed a Diploma in Endodontics.

What is a root canal filling?

The part of the tooth that is either dead or inflamed is carefully removed. Digital X-rays are taken to establish the extent and precise location. During the procedure, it is important to keep the area being filled as sterile as possible and an antiseptic solution is applied.

The root area is prepared so that it can be filled and is closed over with a temporary filling. At a further appointment, a permanent filling is placed. Sometimes after a root filling a crown is recommended to strengthen the tooth which may be more fragile after a root filling.

What are the benefits of a root canal filling?

• Prevents the need for an extraction
• Protects the surrounding teeth from stress
• Maintains function

Are root canal fillings painful?

Root canal fillings take longer than a normal filling because of the detailed and precise work involved but you should not feel any more discomfort than you would with a normal filling.

A local anaesthetic will be given to numb the area so that you are comfortable throughout the procedure. At Six Gables Dental Practice, we use the latest equipment combined with up-to-date techniques for successful root fillings.