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Call us: 01793 528 431

11 Cheney Manor Road, Swindon, Wiltshire SN2 2NT

enquiries@cheneymanor.co.uk

Welcoming New Patients

We would love you to join us! Our friendly approach puts patients of all ages at ease.

Dental Implant Specialists

Built on the philosophy that you come first. You will always feel comfortable in the knowledge that we truly understand, we will listen and be there for you, giving support and confidence from start to finish.

Patient Focussed Dentistry

The needs of our patients are paramount. Our aim is to provide high-quality dentistry in a modern environment designed especially for this.

Facial Aesthetics

Refresh your look and glow with confidence. Excellent Results by Qualifed, Professional & Experienced Practitioners.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the discreet way to straighten your teeth. Book an appointment today.

Root Canal Treatment

A root canal treatment is required if the dental pulp (or central layer) of your tooth has become infected or inflamed and cannot be saved. This normally arises as a result of advanced decay, a deep filling or a severe crack or fracture to the tooth due to a trauma. Occasionally it can be a result of gum disease.

The main symptom of a pulp infection is tooth pain and increased sensitivity to hot or cold. The tooth may become discoloured and the gum can swell and feel tender. You may also find that you have a metallic taste in your mouth. Sometimes, there are no symptoms at all.

What is dental pulp?

Your teeth are comprised of several layers. The top (outer layer) of the crown is made of a very hard enamel. Underneath the enamel is a dentine layer which encases a hollow centre containing the dental pulp- making up the nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.

This dental pulp runs from the dentine layer right down into the root canals of your tooth connecting the blood vessels and nerves in your tooth with the gum.

When this pulp is infected it begins to die but the bacteria continue to travel down into your gum causing it to become inflamed and sore- and occasionally resulting in a painful abscess.

It is important to visit your Dentist as, if left untreated, the supporting bone can be lost completely.

A root canal treatment is a successful, safe and long-term way of helping to save a tooth which would otherwise need to be extracted.

What is involved in a root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment normally takes place over several visits. The length of treatment will depend on your case and the tooth that is being treated. Front teeth normally contain just one root canal whereas the back teeth can have up to four- so will take longer to treat. If more than one appointment is required they will normally be spaced over weekly intervals. Your tooth will be covered and temporarily restored in between appointments.

Will a root canal treatment hurt?

Your root canal treatment will take place under a local anaesthetic so should feel much the same as having a normal filling. You may experience some slight discomfort or gum swelling in the days afterwards but this can be helped with ibuprofen or paracetamol. If the pain does persist then contact your Dentist.

Many people can be scared at the thought of having a root canal treatment as it is often considered a painful procedure. Bear in mind that the pain you will be experiencing as a result of the infected pulp or the potential abscess that could develop will be much more distressing and it is really worth getting the issue sorted to avoid the need for complete removal of the tooth.

How to care for my tooth following root canal treatment

During and immediately following treatment be careful not to bite down too hard on the tooth so that you don’t damage it.

When looked after properly your root canal treated tooth should last for many years.

In order to keep all of your teeth healthy it is important to maintain good oral hygiene- brushing and flossing teeth for 3 minutes, twice a day. Avoid eating too many sugary foods and visit your Dentist for regular check-ups.

FAQ’S:

Can my tooth survive without the pulp centre?

Yes. When you are small and your teeth are still growing the pulp is vital in helping them to develop properly. (It carries nutrients between the gum and tooth ensuring that both stay healthy). Once your teeth are fully grown the main purpose of the pulp is to alert you to damage or infection- by causing pain!

When your tooth is fully matured it is possible to remove the infected pulp. Filling of the canal chambers prevents re-infection and the new filling or crown will help to restore the tooth to full function. Provided the tooth is looked after you shouldn’t experience any problems although occasionally it may become slightly discoloured over time.

Why not just have the tooth removed?

Unless absolutely necessary the extraction of a tooth should be avoided. This is because of the numerous personal and practical issues that can arise as a result of a missing tooth or teeth: