Curious about why your dentist may have recommended root canal therapy? Join our Clinique Dentaire Dr. S. Sgro & Dr. J. Lang dentists to learn about this procedure, why it may have been suggested, and what to expect.
Why might I need a root canal?
The inside of your tooth contains soft tissue (a.k.a. pulp) that can become the site of a bacterial infection as a result of a deep cavity or traumatic injury. Only your dentist can examine the tooth and confirm whether you need this dental surgery, since pulp damage may happen even if there are no visible cracks or chips in the tooth.
Root canal therapy (also called endodontics) can save a tooth that has developed a severe infection on the inside, saving the tooth from dying and requiring extraction. Missing teeth can lead to complex dental issues that can be difficult, time-consuming and costly to repair, so it is always preferable to attempt to save the tooth with a root canal.
A root canal can preserve your tooth and alleviate symptoms such as:
Severe Toothache Pain
If the tooth pulp is infected, it will often feel painful. You may notice sharp pain whenever you apply pressure to the tooth, such as during chewing. There also might be sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
Dental Cysts
These small, pimple-like bump forms on the gums near a tooth that may be infected or decayed tooth. They may also form if the tooth’s pulp is infected.
Tooth Discolouration
Infected pulp may cause a tooth to darken in colour due to internal damage. If you notice one of your teeth is a darker shade than the others, there may be an issue with the inner pulp.
What happens during a root canal procedure?
Thanks to modern dental technology and therapies, root canals are now a fairly uncomplicated and minimally invasive option when compared to tooth extractions or other procedures.
Before beginning the procedure, the area if numbed with anesthesia before your dentist uses a specialized tool to create an opening in the tooth. The bacteria, diseased blood vessels or dead tissue will then be removed from the interior of the tooth before water is used to shape and irrigate the inner chamber of the tooth. This rinses away remaining diseased tissue.
Your dentist may also apply an antimicrobial solution to eliminate any remaining bacteria and decrease your risk of further infection.
After the chamber has been thoroughly cleaned and dried, it will be filled with medicated dental material. Your dentist will then place a temporary filling to seal the tooth until a permanent crown is placed.
A few weeks later, the permanent dental crown will be placed to protect the tooth from damage.
Do you have questions about root canal therapy, and how this procedure can help you? Our Greenfield Park dentists can explain the process and answer any inquiries you may have. Contact us today.