Has your dentist recommended that you have a root canal treatment? Here, our Yarmouth dentists explain this procedure, why you may require one, and what you can expect from a root canal
Why might I need a root canal?
Your tooth contains something called pulp on its inside. This collection of soft tissue and nerves can become infected with bacteria through a deep cavity or traumatic injury. Only your dentist will be able to examine your tooth and confirm whether you need this surgery since damage to your pulp may happen even if there aren't any visible cracks or chips in your tooth.
Root canal therapy (also referred to as endodontics) can save a tooth that has developed a severe infection on the inside. Without a root canal, the tooth would die and you would need to have it extracted. Missing teeth can lead to complex dental issues that can be difficult, time-consuming and costly to repair. So it is always preferable to save the tooth with a root canal if at all possible.
Root canals are able to preserve your tooth and alleviate symptoms, including:
Severe Toothache Pain
If the pulp of your teeth becomes infected, this is often the cause of some serious pain. You may notice a sharp pain whenever you apply pressure to your tooth such as while chewing
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.
Bump on the Gums
Also known as a dental cyst, this small, pimple-like bump forms on the gums near a tooth that may need a root canal. Dental cysts develop around the roots of an infected or decayed tooth. They may also form if the tooth’s pulp is infected.
Darkening of the Tooth
Infected pulp can cause a tooth to darken in colour from internal damage. If you notice that one of your teeth is starting to develop a darker shade than the others, there may be an issues with the inner pulp.
What happens during a root canal procedure?
With modern dental technology and techniques, root canal therapy has become a relatively simple and minimally invasive procedure when compared with a tooth extraction or other procedures.
The area around your tooth will be numbed before your dentist then uses a specialized tool to create an opening in your infected tooth. Bacteria, diseased blood vessels and dead tissues will be removed from the interior of the tooth. The interior will then be shaped and irrigated with water to rinse away any remaining diseases 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.
If you would like to learn more about others' experiences during a root canal, you could look up root canal reviews on a search engine and read further into the topic. Most teeth that have had root canals can last a lifetime and help you to maintain comfort nd confidence in your smile.
Do you have questions about root canal therapy, and how this procedure can help you? Our Yarmouth dentists can explain the process and answer any inquiries you may have. Contact us today.
