Root Canal Treatment FAQs

When you have decay (one that is not too severe to warrant an extraction), a root canal treatment is recommended. Most people actively ignore root canal therapy because of the associated misconception that it is painful. However, a root canal treatment not only removes the infection but also saves your teeth.

Before you visit a root canal dentist near you, here is some information on the root canal.

What is an Endodontic Treatment (Root Canal), and Why Would You Need One?

Our teeth have several layers, with the pulp cavity being the innermost one. A root canal chamber houses the tissues and nerves that nourish the teeth while in the growth stage. The pulp also supports the dentin and maintains the integrity of the teeth. Any damage to the cavity can cause pain and even damage the teeth.

The pulp chamber can get infected or bruised because of decay and repeated dental procedures. Addressing the infection is vital in preserving your oral health. Not getting a root canal treatment in Caledon, ON, can cause the infection to spread to the nearest dental tissues. This will affect the teeth causing them to weaken and the supporting bone to deteriorate. Eventually, the teeth will need to be removed.

Keep in mind that when the teeth are removed, you will have unsightly gaps. These cause the surrounding teeth to shift into the available spaces, which will weaken your dental structure.

Getting a root canal treatment can save your teeth and preserve your dental health and appearance.

What Are the Signs of an Infected Pulp?

When you have an infected pulp, you might have:

• Severe pain when biting on something
• Chipped and cracked teeth
• Swollen, tender, and pimples on the gums
• A sensitivity that lasts for longer when you take hot or cold foods
• Darkening or decayed gums

How is Root Canal Procedure Done?

You will need to visit our endodontist specialist at least two dental visits. The process is done in several steps:

• • Dental examination

The dentist will use x-rays and radiology to assess your gums and teeth. He will take you through the procedure, the steps involved, and what to expect after the procedure.

• • Opening the pulp cavity

After numbing your gums, the dentist will separate the affected teeth with a protective sheet to keep it clean and dry. Next, he will open the tooth to access the cavity. Using small instruments, the dentist will clean the pulp and reshape it.

• • Filling the chamber

The chamber is then sealed with a rubber-like material, and a temporary filling is used to close it.

• • Placing the dental crown

The dentist will take a digital scan or impression of your teeth to create the dental crown. The final dental visit is for fixing the crown to restore the teeth strength and functionality.

What to Expect After the Root Canal Therapy?

You will not feel any pain during the root canal procedure because the dentist will use local anesthesia and sedation dentistry. However, you may experience discomfort after the anesthesia begins to wear out. You may also have sensitivity, but the discomfort will clear with pain relievers.

It is important to avoid spicy, chewy, and hard foods to avoid bruising the affected area. Also, stay away from smoking, which may slow down the healing process.

Some people may also experience uneven bite or have an allergic reaction to the medication. That is why it is important to have a follow-up consultation with the dentist to assess the healing of the gums.

Sometimes the teeth might discolor because of internal bleeding, which will cause stains to develop. These stains are not a dental problem but can be aesthetically unattractive. You can get the teeth brightened with teeth whitening treatment.

Can Root Canal Procedure Fail?

Root canals can fail because of several factors, such as multiple canals that were undetected on the first procedure. Also, breakdown or wearing out of the inner sealant or dental crown will make the tooth to get infected again.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit South Hill Dental Bolton dental clinic for more information on root canal treatment and what the procedure involves.