Your guide to Root Fillings

Q. What is a root filling?

Root treatment is the removal of diseased tissue from the inside the roots of a tooth which is then replaced with filling material.

Q. Why do I need a root filling?

In the tooth is a pulp chamber, which contains the nerve and blood vessels. If decay is left untreated or a crack in the tooth reaches the pulp chamber, it will cause irreversible damage to the nerve and long term pain from the tooth. When this happens, build up of infection in the bone around the tooth will cause an abscess. The formation of an abscess usually causes pain and if left untreated the infection may spread leading to loss of the tooth.

Q. What will the treatment involve?

Initially local anaesthetic is given so that no discomfort will be felt. A hole will then be made in the top of the tooth to gain access to the diseased nerve. The diseased tissue is then removed and the root canals located. The inside of the root canals are measured and cleaned with antibacterial solution and very fine instruments. A decision will then be made whether to complete the root filling or to place antibacterial paste down the canal system for a period of time. When the root filling is completed the canal system will be completely filled up with filling material.

Q. How many appointments will this take?

The time needed will depend upon the tooth treated, the shape of the root canals and the amount of infection present. Usually treatment requires one appointment of about an hour but sometimes two appointments are required.

Q. Will the treatment last forever?

With the techniques and materials used at this practice we achieve a high success rate. Occasionally even with the best treatment it may not be possible to save a tooth. The root filling once placed should cause very few symptoms and if the tooth is restored should last for many years.

Q. Will I require any other additional treatment?

The decay prior to treatment and the hole made for access to the diseased nerve will significantly weaken the tooth. Sometimes a filling can be used, but often it is wise to place a crown on the tooth to protect it.

Q. How can I prevent this happening again?

An abscess is caused by decay reaching the tooth's pulp. The simple way to avoid this is by good dental care and minimal sugar in the diet to initially prevent decay and regular examinations to treat new decay and prevent it reaching the pulp.