Inside the enamel (hard outer shell of the tooth) , there is a secondary protection layer called dentine . Inside the dentine is a specific area called the pulp or nerve chamber . The pulp chamber contains blood vessels and nerves to provide nutrients for the tooth .
If your tooth’s nerve chamber becomes infected by decay or damaged by injury , root canal treatment is often the only way to save your tooth as an alternative to removal of the tooth (extraction).
Deep cavities or trauma can damage or infect the nerve of the tooth (pulp). In such a case , the dentist removes the damaged or infected pulp and replaces it with a special filler which helps protect the rest of the tooth . This filler will probably last for a long time, however, there may be a flare up and you may need a new filling or a cap on the tooth . Without root canal treatment , the gum and bone around the tooth may become infected and a painful swelling / abscess may form .
Quick facts about root canal treatment :
You may need root canal treatment if you have :
- Pain or throbbing while biting .
- Pain when eating /drinking hot or cold beverages / foods .
- Deep cavity or injury that causes an infection in the bone .
- Colour change / darkening of the tooth.
- Swelling or /and pus discharge in nearby gum .
White composite fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. Direct fillings are placed by your Dentist using a bright blue light that hardens the Composite material.
Tooth whitening can be a very effective way of lightening the natural colour of your teeth without removing any of the tooth surface . It cannot make a complete change, however, it has shown to lighten the existing shade and brighten your smile.
Dental hygienists are specially trained to work with the dentist in giving care to patients .
Inside the enamel (hard outer shell of the tooth) , there is a secondary protection layer called dentine . Inside the dentine is a specific area called the pulp or nerve chamber . The pulp chamber contains blood vessels and nerves to provide nutrients for the tooth .
Preventative treatments are designed to prevent dental problems.
A denture is designed to fill in the gaps left by one or more missing teeth. It is either a plastic or metal plate with a number of false teeth attached to it.
There are a few different treatment options your dental professional may suggest . These include bridges , crowns and implants.
Cosmetic dental treatments include any techniques that restore or improve the appearance of your teeth.