Root Canal Therapy Near You
Inside the core of every tooth is a fleshy mass known as the pulp. The best way to repair a damaged pulp is by getting a root canal. This procedure will eliminate pain and swelling. A root canal procedure is a dental treatment aimed at extracting inflamed or infected pulp from within a tooth. This involves thorough cleaning and disinfection of the affected area, followed by filling and sealing it. The purpose of root canal treatment is to eradicate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent further infection of the tooth, and preserve the natural tooth structure.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
If any of the following start to manifest, call your dentist in Grande Prairie to set up an appointment:
- Prolonged sensitivity
- Toothache
- A lingering bad taste in your mouth
- It hurts to bite and chew
- Pimples on your gums
- Darkening of your tooth
The severity of these symptoms can vary from patient to patient. Listen to your body and seek care sooner rather than later.
The Procedure Explained
The various phases of root canal treatment in Grande Prairie are outlined for your convenience below:
1. Your dentist will physically evaluate and take x-rays of your tooth to understand the extent of the problem.
2. Once you’ve been approved for treatment, local anesthesia is provided, which numbs the area and stops you from feeling discomfort while your dentist works.
3. An opening is made in the top of your tooth with a dental drill to access the damaged pulp. It will be extracted, and then the chamber will be disinfected.
4. Gutta-percha seals the chamber shut and prevents reinfection. A temporary prosthetic, usually a dental crown, is placed over the treated tooth.
5. At least 2-3 weeks later, a permanent crown made to fit your dimensions, will replace the temporary one. This piece will protect your tooth and allow you to eat your favourite meals without feeling any pain.
6. Your tooth is polished to a beautiful shine. As a final step, your dentist will discuss aftercare measures before you leave the clinic.
If you have questions about any part of the procedure, please let them know.
We Can Help Repair Your Smile; Call Today!
Contact our dentist near you today if you’ve been told you need to undergo root canal therapy. At Bear Creek Dental, we provide restorative services to patients of all ages and will take every step to ensure your smile fully heals. Set up an initial consultation to find out more; you can do this by giving us a call at (780) 539-0404. See you soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have signs of constantly having tooth pain, being sensitive to hot/cold temperatures, or swelling, you might need a root canal. In these cases, a dental exam and x-ray will determine if there is an infection or nerve damage.
Modern root canal treatment is not likely to cause more pain and discomfort than having a filling. While your dentist is performing the root canal, a local anesthetic will numb the area. After the procedure, some discomfort is normal and can be taken care of using pain relievers.
Please don’t chew on a treated tooth. Until your dentist finishes the procedure with a crown, maintain your usual oral hygiene by brushing and flossing. Follow up with your dentist, as needed, to ensure proper healing of the tooth.
You may need a root canal when deep decay, cracks, or trauma, usually to the crown of the tooth, have caused damage to the tooth’s pulp. Damage to the pulp can lead to infection, intense pain, and abscess formation. Prompt treatment preserves the tooth and stops further harm.
Wait until the numbness wears off before eating. Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated side. Once fully restored, you can eat normally again.
The tooth may appear slightly darker if left uncrowned. A dental crown restores appearance and function. With proper restoration, it will look and feel natural.