Unfortunately, in this instance, a little more has to be done to remove the decay in the roots of the tooth, and this is where modern endodontics comes in.
Whatever the cause of your pain and infection, you must seek advice to have the area drained and relieve the swelling. We will normally try to drain the swelling from inside the tooth or occasionally, if extensive, we will make a small incision into the affected area and drain the swelling directly. Once drained and the pressure relieved, the pain associated will reside as well.
Dr Anish Patel has a special interest in Endodontics, having completed further training in advanced endodontics related to general practice.
He routinely works under a dental microscope, allowing him to practise minimally invasive dentistry, conserve tooth structure and reduce postoperative complications. Dr Patel pursues perfection in dentistry and strives to ensure all his patients are relaxed and comfortable in his care.
After treatment, your lips and gums may remain numb for a few hours until the anaesthetic wears off. Later you may experience some pain and discomfort, which you can treat with pain medicines, such as ibuprofen, paracetamol, or a stronger prescription painkiller with supplemental antibiotics. This usually lasts only a day or two, but the relief from the pain of an infected tooth will be great.
The major risk of not having treatment is progression of the swelling and infection to areas that may restrict swallowing and breathing. Therefore, no matter how large or small, it is important you have a medical professional check and treat your tooth urgently.
With any root canal procedure there are associated risks. They are small and unlikely, but it is something everyone should know. They include prolonged numbness and altered sensation, fracture of the tooth or instruments, recurrent infections despite treatment, jaw ache (due to keeping mouth open for a long time), and extraction of tooth if root canal fails.
