If a tooth is knocked out of the mouth (avulsed) quick action can save it. Putting the tooth straight back into place in the mouth (replanting) is the best course of action. It is critical that this is done quickly. Teeth that are replanted within 15 minutes have the best chance of surviving. Follow these steps: If […]
Root resorption is the destruction or “eating away” of the tooth and /or surrounding bone, caused by the body’s defences. Infection of the dental pulp can affect the tissues around the root and cause resorption of bone at the root apex (tip of the root). This can also resorb some of the root tip itself. A knock […]
Root canal surgery and in particular apical root surgery is a minor surgical procedure. You should expect the following: possible swelling and bruising for 2-5 days possible shrinkage of the gum margin there may be some post-operative bleeding requiring the use of firm pressure with a cold compress for 4 minutes at least. If […]
What is an Apicectomy? An apicectomy is a minor oral surgery procedure which is necessary when infection remaining within the root is contributing to an area of bony deterioration about the root apex . The tooth in the majority of cases will have been previously root filled. An apicectomy is indicated when: retreatment of the root […]
Why does one of my teeth look darker than rest? When the dental pulp of a front tooth is damaged either by trauma, decay or a leaking filling it may result in a discoloured tooth. It is possible to improve the colour of the tooth by carrying out a bleaching procedure on completion of the […]
The short answer to this common question is yes. Teeth requiring root canal treatment have commonly been ravaged by previous dental disease and have often had a history of extensive previous treatment. They are characterised by very big cavities or big fillings. A tooth with a big filling is structurally weaker that a tooth with […]
The aim of root canal treatment is to remove infected tissue from the inside of a tooth and its roots and to fill them with an inert rubber material called “Gutta Percha”. Immediately after the filling appointment residual natural tissue inflammation may cause discomfort for a few days, which can be controlled by an over-the-counter […]
Reason 1: Experience On average, endodontists perform nearly 25 root canal treatments a week, while general dentists perform less than two. Reason 2: Efficiency Because they limit their practice solely to endodontic treatment, endodontists are efficient and precise. This means that you have a positive experience and heal faster. Reason 3: Availability Most endodontists offer […]
One of the main causes of pulp disease is tooth decay. Pulp is a living structure and bacteria love the warm cosy environment it provides. Tooth decay dissolves the tooth’s mineral outer shell to the point whereby a hole or cavity has formed. Bacteria then digest and eat through the dentine (the layer below the […]
Once the dental pulp is compromised by bacteria infection and abscess formation is inevitable. Root canal therapy is necessary because the tooth will not heal by itself. Without treatment, the infection will spread, to the bone around the tooth and may lead to the eventual loss of the tooth. Pain usually worsens until one is […]
