Improper care of the teeth can very quickly result in tooth decay that can affect the pulp tissue contained within teeth. Tooth decay can be prevented easily with a regular regimen of brushing and flossing, however, unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen. If teeth aren’t cared for properly and tooth decay sets in, immediate treatment is needed to ensure as much as the decaying tooth tissue is saved. Extracting a tooth and replacing it with an implant is far more expensive than simply performing endodontic treatment, otherwise referred to as a root canal. The team at Ballan Family Dental is prepared for any patients in Ballan or the surrounds who need endodontic treatment. 

Symptoms Which May Require Endodontic Treatment 

If you are experiencing pain in a tooth or swelling in the surrounding area, it may be a sign that you are suffering from tooth decay and require endodontic treatment. Similarly, if you experience pain while eating or drinking or during the night it may be a sign that a root canal is required. Finally, if your gums are bleeding in combination with any of the symptoms listed above, you might have had tooth decay set in. It’s always best practice to consult your local dentist if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above. Ballan Family Dental can diagnose any instances of tooth decay and its severity if you come in for a consultation with our family dentist. 

How Is Endodontic Treatment Performed? 

Before treatment, diagnosis will take place. Your dentist will use high-tech dental imaging techniques to take photographs of the inside of your teeth to identify the location and scope of any tooth decay that has set in. Following diagnosis, a dental drill will be used to pierce a hole in any affected teeth. An endodontic bur will then be used to scrape away any rotting tooth material and a sealant used to fill the gap which is left behind in each tooth. If the tooth decay is advanced, then the top of the tooth may need to be removed and replaced with a crown or bridge in the case multiple teeth are affected. 

Caring For Teeth Following Endodontic Treatment 

Following your treatment, your dentist will advise you about the best course of action in terms of short-and-long-term oral care. You might be required to take antibiotics for a few days following the procedure to reduce the chance of infection and handle any pain which persists. Try to eat soft foods and avoid anything with a crunchy texture. Brush and floss gently for a few days; before resuming your regular routine of oral health care. 

Visit Our Clinic Today 

If you are suffering from tooth decay to the extent that pain makes it difficult to perform basic tasks, do the best thing for you and call us at Ballan Family Dental today to schedule an appointment for endodontic treatment. We can be contacted by calling 03 4310 3811 or by using the 24/7 booking form on our homepage. We look forward to meeting and treating your teeth soon.