Our Markham dentist might suggest a root canal treatment for a tooth that is infected or badly damaged. This dental procedure removes the portion of the tooth, or the pulp. Then they will clean and disinfect the area before filling it and sealing it off. The most common reasons the pulp is effected include a tooth that is cracked, a very deep cavity, tooth trauma or a tooth that requires repetitive dental treatments. The term, “root canal” is used for this type of treatment because the cleaning occurs deep in the root of the tooth.
What steps will the dentist take during a root canal?
When your dentist suggests a root canal there are several steps he will perform over a number of office visits. During the initial visit, the dentist will take x-rays to make sure where the decay is situated. In most cases, they will schedule you on another day to perform the actual treatment procedure.
Once you come in for the completion of the root canal a local anesthesia will be applied to the tooth. This helps eliminate the pain in the tooth. Even though it sounds frightening, a root canal is no more painful than a regular filling; and the procedure is similar. After the tooth and area has been numbed, the pulp is removed from the tooth. This takes out the diseased part of the tooth which is then filled back up with a rubber-like gutta-percha substance. Once the tooth is filled back in, cement will be used to seal it off.
What are the advantages of having a root canal treatment?
In most cases, a root canal can be accomplished in one visit, but in some cases it may take two appointments to finish treating the tooth. This depends entirely on the severity of the condition. Saving a tooth through a root canal treatment has several advantages including:
- Provides for more efficient chewing
- Restores normal sensation and biting force
- Restores natural appearance
- Protects other teeth from extra wear and tear or strain
Having a root canal can help you maintain a natural smile, limit extended dental work, and helps you be able to eat the foods you enjoy.
Will the tooth need extra care after a root canal?
Your dentist will provide you with specific care instructions after you have a root canal. He may recommend not chewing with that tooth for a specific amount of time. After that you will be able to return to normal oral hygiene practices including brushing and flossing. A tooth that has had root canal treatment will be just as strong as the other teeth. If the tooth becomes painful or does not seem to heal, it is important to have the dentist check it out.
Can every tooth have a root canal?
In most cases, all your teeth can be treated. There are some instances where a tooth is not savable. There may not be enough bone support or for some reason the tooth is not healthy enough to be restored.
