Why a Root Canal May Be Recommended
A root canal can help if the nerve in a damaged tooth has been affected. This procedure can help alleviate pain and even save the tooth, preventing the need for more extensive dental work such as a tooth extraction.
By removing decay and bacteria from the inner tooth, your dentist can help stop the spread of infection and restore the healthy portion of the tooth.
After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will generally subside as the inflammation goes away and the tooth has healed. You will be given detailed care instructions after each appointment. It's good to keep in mind that daily oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will help with the longevity of your restored tooth.
The Root Canal Procedure
Root canal treatment can typically be done in one or two appointments. To begin, your dentist will evaluate the infected tooth and take X-rays to get a clearer idea of what is going on within the tooth.
During a root canal procedure, infected nerve tissue is removed and the canals of the tooth are cleaned out using a file. This file smooths out the inner walls of the tooth and ensures that no pulp tissue or infection is left.
The canals are then filled with a special material that both disinfects and seals off the root canals to ensure that debris or infection cannot get back inside the tooth.
Finally, the tooth is covered with a dental restoration, such as a dental crown, to complete the procedure.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms below, they may indicate that you have developed an oral health condition that may require a root canal. These signs include:
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Severe toothache pain
- Swelling and/or tenderness
- Any kind of pain or sensitivity to the tooth
While it is important to know the signs to look out for, sometimes no symptoms are present. If you are concerned about your oral health, contact our Burnaby dentists to book an appointment.