Understanding Root Canal Treatment in Hammersmith: What Patients Should Know

When it comes to root canals Hammersmith residents can place their full trust in our professional team at Kings Dental Clinic. We understand that dental procedures can often be daunting, so our aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of what a root canal treatment entails. Armed with the right knowledge, we believe our patients can approach their treatment with confidence. Root canal treatment, also known as endodontics, is a dental procedure aimed at treating infection at the centre of a tooth. This process is often necessary to prevent further infection and save the tooth. At Kings Dental Clinic, we pride ourselves on offering treatment that is as pain-free and comfortable as possible. Patient wellbeing is our paramount concern, and we always strive to provide the highest standard of care.

Introduction to Root Canals

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For those unfamiliar with the term, a root canal is a treatment employed to repair or save a badly decayed or infected tooth, where the dental pulp has been damaged. This could be due to a deep cavity, a cracked tooth, or injury to the tooth. The procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the area, then filling and sealing it. Often misunderstood and feared, root canals have a reputation for being painful. However, with modern anaesthetics and techniques, it’s actually a straightforward process that relieves pain and saves your natural tooth. At Kings Dental Clinic in Hammersmith, we’re committed to alleviating any distress or discomfort you might feel about having a root canal, ensuring you’re informed and comfortable every step of the way.

Why Choose Kings Dental Clinic for Root Canals in Hammersmith?

Choosing Kings Dental Clinic for your root canals Hammersmith ensures you’re in the hands of experts who prioritise patient comfort and safety. We pride ourselves on our professional team of dentists and endodontists who are not only highly skilled but are also dedicated to making the process as painless as possible. Our excellent facilities are designed to provide a relaxing environment, easing any anxiety you might have about your treatment. With us, you benefit from a team that genuinely cares about your oral health, offering comprehensive post-procedure care advice to ensure successful recovery. We are dedicated to providing a root canal treatment that is not only effective but also comfortable for our patients. At Kings Dental Clinic, your well-being is our utmost priority.

The Root Canal Process at Our Clinic

At Kings Dental Clinic, the root canal Hammersmith process is straightforward. It begins with a thorough assessment of your oral health to identify the extent of the infection. We then administer local anaesthesia to ensure total comfort throughout the procedure. Our skilled dentists remove the damaged pulp, followed by a thorough cleaning and disinfecting of the root canal. The area is then filled and sealed to prevent any future infection. Throughout your root canal treatment, our team in Hammersmith is committed to ensuring you remain comfortable and informed. We prioritise patient education, clarifying all steps of the procedure to alleviate any concerns. Our commitment to offering a stress-free experience sets us apart in the field of root canal treatments.

Post-Procedure Care and Maintenance

After your root canal treatment at our Hammersmith clinic, we provide comprehensive advice on post-procedure care and maintenance. This includes tips on maintaining oral hygiene, managing potential discomfort, and preventive measures to avoid future issues. Regular check-ups following the procedure are essential to ensure successful healing and to prevent potential reinfection. We, at Kings Dental Clinic, are dedicated to supporting our patients beyond the treatment room, offering guidance and reassurance throughout their recovery. Remember, post-procedure care is just as important as the treatment itself, and our team is here to provide the necessary support every step of the way.

Root Canals: A Detailed Guide to the Process and Benefits

At Kings Dental Clinic, we understand that root canals can be a source of anxiety for many. That’s why we’re here to demystify the process and put your worries at ease. Root canals, medically known as endodontic treatments, are common dental procedures performed to save a severely damaged or infected tooth. They’re not as daunting as they sound! In our hands, the procedure is safe, highly effective, and relatively painless. With our state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care, we ensure a comfortable experience for all our patients. We’re proud to offer professional root canals Hammersmith, providing top-notch dental care tailored to your needs. So, let’s delve into the specifics of what a root canal procedure entails and why it’s often the best choice for preserving your oral health.

Understanding the Importance of Root Canals

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We believe it’s important to understand why root canals are crucial. When a tooth becomes severely decayed or infected, it can cause immense pain and pose a risk to your overall health. Ignoring it isn’t an option. The infection can spread, leading to more severe complications. That’s where root canals Hammersmith come in. The procedure involves removing the infected pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning the area, and sealing it to prevent future infections. It’s not just about relieving your discomfort; it’s about preserving the tooth and maintaining your oral health. That’s why we, at Kings Dental Clinic, take great pride in offering root canals in Hammersmith – it’s about giving our patients the chance to smile freely, without pain or worry.

The Root Canal Procedure at Kings Dental Clinic

At Kings Dental Clinic, we’ve honed our root canal procedure to be as comfortable and efficient as possible. Firstly, we numb the area with local anaesthesia to ensure you feel no pain during the treatment. Our skilled team then removes the infected pulp and cleans the inside of the tooth thoroughly. Following this, we fill and seal the tooth with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. To protect the treated tooth, we often cap it with a crown, blending seamlessly with your natural teeth. Throughout the procedure, we prioritise your comfort and wellbeing, answering any questions you may have. By choosing us for your root canals Hammersmith, you’re opting for an experienced and caring team, devoted to delivering the highest standard of dental care.

Why Choose Kings Dental Clinic for Your Root Canals in Hammersmith?

Choosing the right dental practice for your root canal treatment is crucial. At Kings Dental Clinic, we provide a harmonious blend of professional expertise, advanced technology, and warm patient care. Our team is committed to making your root canal procedure as pain-free and comfortable as possible. With us, you’re not just a patient; you’re part of our dental family, deserving of the highest quality care. We ensure transparent communication, explaining each step of the procedure, and are always available to address any queries or concerns. Having served countless satisfied patients, we’re a trusted name for root canals in Hammersmith. So, choose us and experience the difference of a dental practice that truly cares for your oral health.

The Long-Term Benefits of Root Canals

Root canals don’t just bring immediate relief from tooth pain; they also offer substantial long-term benefits. By preserving the natural tooth, we ensure that you can continue to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Root canal treatment also prevents the spread of infection to adjacent teeth, safeguarding your overall oral health. Plus, with our meticulous care at Kings Dental Clinic, we ensure that your treated tooth can last as long as your natural teeth with proper care. Opting for a root canal in Hammersmith at our clinic means choosing a healthier and brighter smile for the long haul. We’re committed to delivering a treatment that not only alleviates your current discomfort but also contributes significantly to your long-term oral wellbeing.

Dentists for root canals near me

Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that is performed to save a damaged or infected tooth. The treatment involves removing the affected tissue, known as the “pulp,” from the inside of the tooth and then cleaning and sealing the root canal. If you are local, you may be looking for a dentist which offers root canals Hammersmith. Of course, it is important to consult with a qualified dental professional about what kind of treatment might be most appropriate for your personal needs. If you would like to book an appointment to discuss this with one of our dentists at Kings Dental Clinic, please do get in touch.

What might cause the need for a root canal?

There are several reasons why you may require root canal treatment. These include: decay or cavities; deep fillings; injury to the tooth and abscesses. Decay which reaches the pulp of your tooth can cause an infection that requires root canal treatment. If you have multiple teeth with decay such as this, you may require several root canals Hammersmith. If left untreated then infection can spread, which can cause pain and damage to the surrounding area and potentially even lead to tooth loss.

A deep filling that reaches the pulp of the tooth can cause damage and inflammation, leading to the need for root canal treatment. If you have sustained an injury, such as from a fall or sports collision, it is possible that you may have taken a knock to the tooth. This can cause damage to the pulp, requiring root canal treatment to remedy it.

Abscesses, which are pockets of pus caused by a bacterial infection, can develop at the end of the tooth’s root. These can be painful, and we find that they are a common cause for our patients requiring an emergency dental appointment. Root canal treatment can help to prevent tooth loss caused by abscesses.

What does root canal treatment look like?

Root canals Hammersmith are often relatively straightforward procedures that can save a damaged or infected tooth and prevent the need for extraction. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected tissue, cleaning and sealing the root canal, and (generally) restoring the tooth with a crown or other prosthetic.

Often, root canal treatment can be expected to take a couple of appointments, though this may vary depending on the patient. Your dentist will be able to provide you with advice as to how to care for your tooth at home after you have undergone root canal treatment. It may be that they advise you to avoid certain types of food or drink, or to implement a particular cleaning routine for a period of time post treatment.

What should I do next?

If you are wondering whether you require root canal treatment, or whether this may help to save one (or several) of your teeth, then we would recommend booking a consultation with your dentist here at Kings Dental Clinic. They will be able to assess the current health of your teeth and advise you as to what the most suitable option is for you and your individual dental needs. Here, at Kings Dental Clinic, we would be thrilled to meet you and to find out how we can partner with you on your journey to a healthier smile.

Root Canals: How Dental Abscesses Are Diagnosed and Treated

At Kings Dental Clinic, we take diagnosing and treating dental abscesses with root canals Hammersmith very seriously and understand the discomfort that comes with this condition.

When a patient comes to us with a suspected dental abscess, the first step is to assess the area; this involves a physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical history. We may also take x-rays to get a better look at the area and determine the extent of the infection.

In some cases, a sample of the pus from the abscess may be taken and sent to a laboratory for further testing, allowing us to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection and determine the best treatment plan.

Treating Dental Abscesses

Once the diagnosis has been made, we can begin treatment. Depending on the severity of the infection, this may involve antibiotics to help clear up the infection or a root canal to remove the infected tissue.

In some cases, a dental extraction may be necessary if the infection is too severe; this is often the last resort, as it can result in permanent tooth loss and may require further treatment to replace the missing tooth.

If the infection is not too severe, we may be able to treat it with a simple course of antibiotics; this can reduce the swelling and pain associated with the infection and prevent it from spreading.

In some cases, we may also recommend a dental filling or crown to protect the tooth from further damage; this can prevent the infection from returning and can restore the appearance of the tooth.

Our clinic also recognises the importance of follow-up care after root canals Hammersmith. We schedule regular appointments to check on the progress of our patients and make sure that the infection has been fully cleared. We also provide our patients with aftercare instructions to ensure that they can properly care for their teeth and gums at home to prevent the infection from recurring.

Preventive care

In addition to the treatments mentioned above, we at Kings Dental Clinic also place a strong emphasis on preventive care. We recommend regular dental checkups and cleanings to prevent the development of dental abscesses. We also educate our patients on proper oral hygiene practices, such as the correct brushing and flossing techniques, to help keep their mouths healthy and free from infection.

Discomfort

Discomfort management is also an important aspect of treating dental abscesses. We understand that the pain associated with this condition can be severe, so we make sure to provide our patients with the appropriate pain relief medication to help them manage their symptoms while they undergo their root canals Hammersmith.

Here at Kings Dental Clinic, our team takes dental abscesses very seriously and strives to provide the best possible care for our patients. If you are experiencing any signs of a dental abscess, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you get the treatment you need to get back to feeling your best.

Endodontics: an intro to root canals

Endodontics gets to the root of the problem! Root canals Hammersmith are often an effective method for saving teeth that would otherwise be lost, but it often has a bad reputation with many patients being very concerned about upcoming treatments.

Dental abscess

The dental abscess is a particularly stubborn presentation of abscesses; various infected tissues with a culture of bacteria that have been isolated from the rest of your body in a capsule of inflamed scar tissue can be tough to treat.

Historically, abscesses used to be lanced, but they are usually resolved with antibiotics in modern dental care. In most cases, the effectiveness of antibiotics is directly proportional to how well the area around the abscess is supplied with blood.

A dental abscess is formed between the microscopic gap where the root interfaces with the jawbone, which is an area with almost no blood flow; this is why intervention is required. Root canals Hammersmith are often performed with the combined use of antibiotics to help prevent secondary or systemic infections.

The procedure

At Kings Dental Clinic, we use the standard root canal procedure: drilling an access hole in the top of the affected tooth and exposing the underlying canal, which is then cleaned and widened until we get down to the underlying abscess. The abscess can then be drained and cleaned from within the tooth.

Depending on which tooth we are working on, the procedure can be quite extensive and take much longer, especially for molars with their two or more roots and difficult position in the mouth. Roots are also rarely straight, and an x-ray will be taken before the procedure to ascertain how complicated the root widening may be, with incomplete or impacted roots requiring significantly more time.

This often leads to the procedure being performed over multiple sessions, with a temporary filling used to close the access hole in between. During such sessions, an antiseptic solution is placed inside the tooth that will slowly seep into the dentin and help with the cleaning and abscess resolution.

As it takes the best part of 2 hours to complete, even a simple root canal procedure without a gap would be difficult for any patient and extremely taxing on our dentist, increasing chances of error.

Aftercare and recovery

The aftercare is minimal, and recovery is no more than a few days. In most cases, we are very proud of our clinic to have an extremely high success rate of 95% at permanently resolving abscesses. However, the most common complication is a re-formation of the abscess in the tooth.

The direction treatment will usually take in this situation is towards an apicoectomy, where the ends of the root tips are surgically removed. This is a relatively invasive procedure and usually only needs to be performed in very complicated systems that cannot be cleaned effectively or treated in any other way.

We’ve managed to achieve and maintain this high standard with our root canals Hammersmith, continually investing in further training and high-quality equipment like surgical microscopes, fine files and grinding tools.

What to expect from your root canal?

Root Canal, that sounds scary right. Well there’s no need to be daunted. We strongly believe here at King’s Dental clinic that the more you know the more confident you can be about your treatment. Yes, some complex treatments will need to be referred to a specialist but for the more common treatment of root canals in Hammersmith let’s look at the normal steps and likely outcomes.

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Most likely this will take place over two visits. Should an infection presently exist, then you will need to stop treatment for a while it is thoroughly treated with a course of antibiotics. This is necessary before normal dental work can resume.

Why would a root canal be needed?

Receiving a root canal in Hammersmith is a very common procedure performed by dentists, the treatment is also known as endodontics and it’s used to treat the infections that occur right at the centre of a tooth. This treatment isn’t generally painful and it can actually save the tooth that might otherwise have to be completely taken out. Why might it be needed? This infection can be caused by a number of things but most commonly results from bacteria residing in the mouth and basically taking over the tooth. Many things can lead to this including general tooth decay, poor or leaking fillings and maybe damage to the tooth as a result of a traumatic event such as a fall or facial injury.

What’s the structure of your teeth?

Firstly it’s important to know a little bit about teeth to understand this process of root canals in Hammersmith. The tooth is made of two specific parts, the root and the crown. The Crown is simply the top part of a tooth whereas the root is the part of the tooth that extends down under the gum and into the bone in your jaw. The aptly named root anchors your tooth into position. The root canal is the connection between one part and the other.

The Prep Work

Endodontics, root canals, by definition are under the teeth.  it’s necessary therefore for your dentist like the team at Kings Dental to begin treatment with an X-ray. This will give us the clearest picture of what is going on and the best chance of treating the cause effectively.

The process

While the rest of the process may seem daunting it should be noted that effective pain relief will be provided by your dentist and as a very common procedure much has been done to make it as comfortable as possible.

The tooth is exposed from the top to allow the pulp to be gently removed. This pulp is what carries the infection and must be removed. The canal itself is now exposed. This can is widened using files to allow it to be cleaned and filled. This is perhaps the longest part of the process but should not be rushed. Once completed the tooth is then refilled with the pulp and if necessary a crown may then be placed on top.

Though a reduced lifespan a tooth treated like this can last you many years. Speak to our team today for a more detailed view on what your personal treatment plan may be.

Worried about an upcoming root canal? Facts and myths about endodontics at Kings Dental Clinic

When you are told by your dentist that you require endodontics, it can bring to mind various unsettling thoughts.

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Usually performed after there has been an infection in the pulp of the tooth, endodontics involves cleaning the inside of the tooth and removing any infected tissue, to ensure that all evidence of the infection is gone and the tooth is clean and healthy.

Understandably, many patients shudder when this is suggested by their dentist, worried that it will add to their discomfort or make their teeth more sensitive.

At Kings Dental Clinic, all of our general dentists are able to perform first-class endodontics or root canals in Hammersmith, leaving our patients with a restored and functional tooth that is free from infection. Our emergency dental team are also able to perform this tooth-preserving procedure, to ensure that regardless of the severity of your infection, you will leave our surgery with your full set of teeth.

But what are the real-life facts about root canals in Hammersmith and which are myths? Read on to discover the real benefits to patients of endodontic therapies.

Endodontic therapy is painful

Myth!

When you visit our dentists for root canals in Hammersmith, chances are you are already experiencing some level of discomfort due to the infection in your tooth pulp.

Before we proceed with any treatment to resolve the issue, our dentists will make sure the area is numbed and that you are comfortable for the therapy to proceed. During endodontic treatment, you will not feel any discomfort and once the numbing agents have worn off, you may experience a bruised sensation, but in comparison to the discomfort you felt previously, we promise it will be minimal!

Extractions are better for your long term health

Myth!

There is no evidence to suggest that extracting an infected tooth has a better long term outcome than endodontic therapy.

As endodontics involve cleaning the root of the tooth to remove any signs of infection, having an extraction may actually be less beneficial for the surrounding teeth, as the infection may still be able to spread. Also, if your infected tooth is located at the front of your mouth, having an extraction is going to lead to more pricey cosmetic procedures, like dental implants or a fitted bridge.

Endodontics kill your teeth

Myth!

While in years gone by endodontic therapies ran the risk of killing your teeth, thanks to modern dental techniques, the nerve of the tooth and the surrounding blood vessels will remain intact.

This will allow you to have the use of your once infected tooth back, without causing deterioration or breakages.

Endodontic therapy takes a long time to heal

Myth!

While you are likely to experience a feeling akin to bruising in your tooth and jaw post-treatment, your once infected tooth should be fully recovered in about a week. The benefits of keeping your natural teeth are obvious with this procedure. If after 7 days you are worried about experiencing an extended healing time, unusual swelling or discomfort, please call our dental team for an emergency follow-up appointment.

If you ever need root canal treatment

We hope you will never get an infection in your tooth that means you have to have root canal therapy, but if you do, you can rest assured that at Kings Dental Clinic in Hammersmith, you will be treated with the latest equipment and by a dentist trained specifically in root canal work.

Root Canals in HammersmithDr Nadia Tawfiq is our root canal dentist, working in a branch of dentistry known as endodontics, which is concerned with the treatment of the soft pulp within the tooth. The pulp is the very inner part of the tooth and it runs all the way down the tooth from the centre of the crown to the tips of the roots. This is the part of the tooth that has to be removed when it becomes diseased or infected. This can happen if the tooth is decaying, or has cracks in it, or if it gets injured in an accident of some kind.

What is root canal therapy?

Dentists carry out root canal work when the pulp inside the tooth root has become infected or diseased, but the rest of the tooth above the gum line is still healthy. Having root canal therapy allows you to keep your tooth instead of having it extracted and then having to have some kind of false tooth installed.

People tend to think of root canal therapy as a particularly painful treatment, but you need not feel any pain with Dr Tawfiq, who will make sure that you are completed numbed with a local anaesthetic. She will then use the latest rotary files and apex locators to clean the infected pulp from the tooth, all the way down to the tip of the root.

It may take more than one visit to complete the treatment, especially if it is a complex case, working on a tooth with multiple roots. You will be fitted with a temporary crown between appointments.

At the end of treatment, your tooth will be covered with a porcelain crown to protect it and it should then last you a good many more years. We have a 95% success rate to back up this claim.

Getting root canals in Hammersmith – common questions and answers

Root canal treatment refers to the treatment of the interior of the tooth. It is necessary when the soft tissue (also known as the pulp) becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes: tooth decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, faulty crowns, or a crack and chips on the tooth enamel are the most common.

More importantly, tooth trauma caused by an accident can also lead to pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible damage. If pulp infection is left untreated, it can cause severe pain and tooth loss.

Root Canal Therapy in HammersmithAt Kings Dental Clinic, we performed root canals in Hammersmith and we appreciate that if you have never experienced this type of treatment before, you probably have questions. Our experienced dentists are here to guide you through the procedure.

What is a root canal treatment?

During a root canal treatment, the tooth pulp and tooth roots are thoroughly cleaned to remove bacteria and other micro-organisms that cause infection. The bacteria and infected tissue remains are removed from the pulp and roots using special needles and chemical substances. Your teeth are then sealed with a filling or a crown for extra protection. Root canal treatment is necessary when the tooth pulp has become infected or when the infection has spread to the roots or jawbone.

When is a root canal treatment not possible?

Root canal treatment is performed when severe tooth decay or trauma has damaged a tooth that is worth preserving. It may not be a suitable treatment option if the tooth is badly damaged. In this case, it may need to be removed.

Which factors affect the outcome of root canal treatment?

Root canal treatment is usually performed in order to treat an infected tooth. The treatment is considered successful when the infection disappears and the function of the tooth is restored. Factors that may influence the successful outcome of root canal treatment include your overall health, the extent of the bacteria present in the pulp of the tooth and the structure of the roots canals. Sometimes, tooth roots are partially or completely solidified, making it challenging to clean the root canal.

Root canal therapy with a 95% success rate

Many people are more than a bit scared at the thought of root canal therapy. Maybe it’s because it is a treatment which is only required when you are already in pain from an infected or diseased tooth. Whether the infection came from decay or a trauma, it’s often very painful.

root-canal-therapy-in-HammersmithHere at Kings Dental Clinic in Hammersmith, root canal therapy is carried out using the latest techniques, equipment and materials.

We use a specialist endodontic microscope to diagnose the infection, and also to aid its treatment. Endodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with root canal therapy.

Treating the infection involves cleaning out the infected pulp from the roots of the tooth. We achieve success rates of higher than 95% for our root canal therapy.

The complexity of each case depends on which tooth is infected. Front teeth have only one root, whereas back teeth can have two or three, increasing the length of treatment and its complexity. This may mean that you will need more than one appointment to complete the treatment. If that is the case, you will be fitted with a temporary crown or filling to protect the tooth between appointments.

After the treatment is complete, we like to fit your tooth with a crown; this covers the work, protecting it, and it also strengthens the tooth.

All our root canal therapy work is carried out by one of our dentists who has a Masters degree in endodontics from a world leading dental hospital.

We carry out root canal therapy under local anaesthetic to reduce pain and discomfort to a minimum. However, we know that it is not uncommon for patients to be anxious about vising the dentist, and that is why our practice is dental phobia certified. Our principal dentist has been helping anxious patients by using relaxation sedation for more than 15 years. This uses a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen, which we call happy air, to relax you to the point that you will still be conscious but unaware of the treatment. You will be comfortable throughout the treatment and still able to follow any instructions the dentist gives you.