Root canals are performed with precision and care, ensuring a quick and relatively pain-free experience. This treatment provides immediate relief and preserves your natural tooth, maintaining the health and integrity of your smile.
In a root canal procedure, the pulp of the tooth—the living tissue inside—is removed and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated dental materials to restore the tooth to full function. Root canal therapy not only preserves your natural tooth, extending its lifetime, but also protects and maintains the jawbone and surrounding tissues. By saving your natural tooth, you can avoid more pain and expense in the future.
Several signs may indicate that root canal therapy is necessary, including:
A root canal treatment typically requires one or two office visits and is performed by either a dentist or an endodontist. Here is how we carry out your root canal procedure:
The first step involves taking an X-ray of the affected tooth and the surrounding bone to identify the cause of your symptoms. Your specialist may prescribe antibiotics to help control infection and reduce inflammation. Addressing this inflammation beforehand alleviates the pain associated with abscesses during the root canal procedure.
Once we are ready to proceed, we will carefully numb the area, including your gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues, to ensure your comfort throughout the process. After ensuring you are numb and comfortable, an access hole is drilled into the tooth. We then remove the pulp, bacteria, decayed nerve tissue, and any related debris from inside the tooth.
Depending on the severity of the abscess, we may place medicated dental materials inside the tooth to completely eliminate any remaining infection. If the procedure requires multiple visits, a temporary filling will be applied to protect the tooth. At this stage, you will begin to experience relief from pain. Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and deemed healthy, it will be permanently sealed to restore its strength and functionality.
Modern root canal procedures are designed to be as comfortable and pain-free as possible. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Post-treatment pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Root canals have a high success rate, generally between 95% and 97%. Success depends on factors such as the tooth's location, the extent of the infection, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene after the procedure. Proper care and regular dental visits can help ensure the longevity of your treated tooth.
Signs that you may need a root canal include persistent tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums, a darkened tooth, or the presence of an abscess. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact our office immediately.
Alternatives to a root canal include tooth extraction and replacement with a dental implant, bridge, or denture. However, saving your natural tooth with a root canal is generally preferred as it maintains jaw structure and prevents shifting of surrounding teeth.
Yes, root canal treatments are generally considered safe during pregnancy, especially during the second trimester. It's important to inform us about your pregnancy so we can take necessary precautions and coordinate with your healthcare provider to ensure the best care for both you and your baby.
You typically need a dental crown after a root canal on your back grinding teeth, molars and premolars. Front teeth, canines, and incisors may not require a dental crown.
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130 Byron St. North
Whitby, ON, L1N 4M9
647-905-9268
info@dwdentistry.ca
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