About The Video
In this case discussion, Dr Elyssa Yap introduces a patient with ongoing pain and swelling in the upper right gum area. She reviews the X-rays, clinical tests, and examination results that point to a specific tooth causing the problem.
She then explains how treatment was prioritised to address the urgent concerns first, while keeping the patient’s comfort, crown condition, and long-term oral health in mind. The video gives insight into root canal planning and patient-centred decision-making.
When tooth pain and swelling occur, it is important to identify the real source of the problem before starting treatment. In this case, Dr Elyssa Yap found a tooth was the main cause. It was infected, non-vital, and very tender. By starting root canal therapy through the existing crown, she could disinfect the tooth without unnecessary treatments.
The approach was staged: first cleaning and dressing the tooth to relieve symptoms, then sealing it if the pain resolved. Another nearby tooth showed older, less-ideal root canal work but no clear signs of active infection, so it was monitored rather than treated straight away. This careful sequencing avoids overtreatment, focuses on comfort, and preserves as much natural structure as possible. Regular reviews and X-rays help ensure the infection stays under control and that retreatment is only done if truly needed.