What is a Root Canal and Why Do I Need It?
A root canal is a dental surgical process used to treat an infected or damaged tooth. The injured or infected pulp—the soft tissue within the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels—is removed during the surgery, and the empty space is filled with a specific substance to stop the spread of infection.
Root canals are generally believed to be extensive and painful procedures, but that is not the case. When done by our dentist near you in West Edmonton, root canals are highly beneficial and don’t cause much hassle.
If the pulp inside your tooth has become inflamed or infected, you might require a root canal. There are several causes for this, including:
- Deep decay: If a cavity is not treated, the pulp of the tooth may become infected.
- Trauma to the tooth: The pulp can become infected when a tooth is chipped, cracked, or broken.
- Grinding your teeth: Grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel and expose the pulp to microorganisms.
- Gum diseases: Progressive gum disease can make the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots and creating an environment for infection.
An untreated tooth infection can result in discomfort, swelling, and possibly abscesses or bone loss.
What is the Process for Getting a Root Canal?
Here are the steps involved in getting a root canal:
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with our dentist as the initial step. They will inspect your tooth, take x-rays, and go through your treatment choices at this appointment. They will set up an appointment if a root canal is thought to be essential.
- Anesthesia: To numb the area around the damaged tooth before beginning the root canal, the dentist will provide local anesthetic. A dental dam, a tiny rubber sheet wrapped over the tooth to isolate it and keep it clean throughout the treatment, can also be given to you.
- Accessing the pulp: The pulp, or soft tissue inside the tooth, will then be accessible by the dentist making a small incision in the top of the tooth.
- Removing the infected tissue: In order to properly remove the injured or infected pulp from the tooth, the dentist will utilize little instruments. To stop the spread of infection, the inside of the tooth will then be cleaned and sterilized.
- Filling the root canal: After the pulp has been taken out, the dentist will use gutta-percha, which resembles rubber, to fill the empty hole. By sealing the root canals, this substance aids in limiting the entry of microorganisms into the tooth.
- Temporary filling: In order to safeguard the tooth while a permanent crown or filling is being created, the dentist will next place a temporary filling in it.
- Follow-up appointment: To have a permanent crown or filling put on the tooth, you will need to make a follow-up appointment with your dentist. This action is critical to safeguarding the tooth and regaining its functionality.
Get Reliable Root Canal Therapy in West Edmonton!
Overall, a root canal normally lasts one to two hours, and the majority of patients report little to no discomfort. After the treatment, though, you might feel some little discomfort or soreness that can be treated with over-the-counter painkillers.
If you’ve been facing the following problems, it might be time to consult with a dentist near you today!
- Severe discomfort when biting or chewing.
- Gum-related bumps.
- Tooth with cracks or chips.
- Persistent heat or cold sensitivity, even after the sensation has passed.
- Soft or swollen gums.
- Severe tooth decay or gum discoloration
Our dentist in West Edmonton combines technology and skill to give you the best dental care near you. Contact All Smiles Dentistry today to get your root canal!