ROOT

CANAL TREATMENT
You have a tooth that requires root canal treatment to restore it. Please read the information below explaining the treatment. I would then ask you to sign the declaration at the foot of the page, prior to starting treatment. Root canal treatment (endodontic treatment) is a procedure done when a tooth has a damaged nerve (pulp). In the healthy tooth the pulp contains living fibers, cells, nerves and a blood supply. Once the pulp of a tooth has become damaged, unlike other parts of the body it does not have the ability to repair its self. If not treated the pulpal tissue will die and become a site of bacterial infection, which may lead to an abscess. The alternative to having a root treatment is to have the tooth extracted. Health Tooth

The aim of root treatment is to remove the damaged or dead pulp from inside the root, clean out the space left, then replace with a filling inside the root; the remaining tooth can then be repaired. Teeth can have a number of roots and canals. In some teeth the roots are very curved, this can result in it being very difficult to get instruments into the canals to clean out the infection. Having a tooth root treated takes time to be done thoroughly, which requires a lengthy appointment. The tooth needs to be isolated from the rest of your mouth to allow the dentist to work in safety with very fine instruments; this is done by means of a Rubber Dam. The whole procedure is of course done under local anaesthetic. Some patients prefer to bring some music with them to listen to during the appointment.

Success rates with modern treatment are good, but can never be guaranteed, and in some cases the tooth may need re-treating, a surgical filling or extraction. To keep myself up to date I attend Post Graduate Courses regularly on the latest techniques in endodontics. If your case is a re root treatment or particularly difficult I may advise a referral to a specialist practitioner. Once treatment is started it may become apparent that the tooth is not amenable to root canal treatment, for example due to a pre-existing fracture. The following complications may also arise during treatment: Separation of an instrument within the root (which may not be removable by your dentist) Fracture of existing fillings, veneers, crowns or bridges (which may need to be replaced) Perforations (extra openings in the root) Missed canals Very branched, curved or narrow canals which are impossible to negotiate. Loss of tooth structure in gaining access to the canals, which may result in fracture. If any of these complications arise I will stop, explain any necessary changes and alternatives and ask for your consent to proceed. After treatment is completed the tooth will require a routine restoration (filling) to rebuild the top part of the tooth, and may also require a crown to maintain strength and appearance as teeth are often brittle and prone to fracture following treatment. The cost of these procedures is additional to the root filling.

 In compliance with Department of Health guide lines Parrys Lane Dental Practice has a policy of using single use instruments for endodontic treatments. Should you have any questions concerning your treatment please ask the dentist directly for clarification, who will be very happy to provide to provide some further explanation should this be required. PATIENT DECLARATION I have read and understood all the information above. I am fully aware of what treatment is required and what will be carried out at my next appointment. I am giving my consent for this treatment to be carried out on the understanding that if it needs to be changed in any way I will be consulted and informed of the changes. I understand the risks associated with this treatment as detailed above. Do not sign this form unless you have read and understood this information Name: Signature: . Date: .