If you have really bad tooth pain or sensitivity, one of the options that may be recommended is a root canal. We know many of our patients are nervous about this procedure because they don’t know what it entails. We’ll explain what a root canal is and why you might need one.
A root canal is a dental procedure to save a tooth that’s very infected or broken. Inside each tooth is a soft tissue called pulp which contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. If this pulp gets inflamed or infected due to extensive decay, repeated dental work, cracks or trauma it can be very painful and can develop an abscess if not addressed. Teeth Whitening brightens the smile by removing stubborn stains and discoloration. This quick and effective treatment helps patients achieve a noticeably whiter appearance.
The procedure is basically removing the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth. We clean and disinfect the inside chambers very well then we fill the space and seal it off so it won’t get infected again. Many people think current root canal therapy is more painful than getting a filling but that’s not true. We use local anesthesia so you’ll be comfortable throughout the treatment. Here are the indicators you may need a root canal. Persistent tooth pain that doesn’t go away is usually the most obvious sign. You may also be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures for a long time even after the cause has been removed. If your tooth changes colour, your gums swell and hurt or you have a bump on your gums that looks like a pimple you may need this treatment.
Many folks in Vaughan ask us why we say to save the tooth instead of just pulling it out. If you can, it’s always better to have natural teeth. They help preserve healthy jaw shape, allow for normal biting force and feeling and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting out of position. A root canal lets you save your natural tooth and get rid of the pain and infection at the same time.
It usually takes one or two visits to complete the process. During your initial visit we remove the affected pulp, clean the canal system thoroughly and may place medicine into the tooth to clear any remaining infection. We then place a temporary seal on the tooth. During a follow up visit we plug the canal permanently and usually put a crown on the tooth to protect it and get it back to full function.
After treatment you may have some slight pain for a few days but you can usually manage with over the counter pain relievers. We give you detailed instructions on how to take care of yourself after surgery to ensure you heal properly. Most patients can go back to what they normally do the next day. Porcelain Veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed over the front of teeth to improve shape, color, and alignment. Many individuals choose Porcelain Veneers for a long-lasting, flawless smile transformation.
At Dentistry on the Pines we use state of the art equipment and techniques to make root canal treatment as efficient and comfortable as possible. We want to help you keep your natural smile while also easing your discomfort and preventing more dental problems from happening. Prevention is always better than treatment. Regular dental exams, proper oral hygiene and addressing tooth issues promptly can often help you avoid needing a root canal in the first place.
But if you do need this treatment we want you to know it’s a routine procedure that can save your tooth and reduce your pain. If you’re in Vaughan and have dental pain or other symptoms that worry you please contact us for an evaluation. Early intervention often leads to better results and can sometimes prevent the need for more extensive treatment. We care about your oral health and are here to give you the care you need in a friendly and comfortable setting.