A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is probably one of the most common dental procedures performed in general dentistry. This treatment allows you to avoid the extraction of your natural teeth and ensures that the affected teeth will last a lifetime.

Every tooth has a natural cavity in the center, which contains a soft area known as the pulp. This pulp is made up of nerves and blood vessels that help your tooth grow and develop. If the dental pulp becomes injured or infected, it needs to be removed. Otherwise, the injure or the infection can cause an abscess, which can lead to swelling of the face and neck and bone loss around the roots of teeth. Root canal treatment is often applied while handling considerable damage as it only spares some part of a natural tooth.

Although the name of the treatment sounds scary, the procedure itself is actually pain-free and quick. Moreover, contemporary anesthetics and endodontic techniques make this therapy rather comfortable and easy.
 

Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection:

• Strong and frequent pain in the tooth and gums
• Extreme sensitivity to heat, cold and pressure
• Visible injury or swelling of the tooth
• Swollen, tender gums
• Discolored tooth
• A reoccurring pimple formed on the gums
• Swollen lymph nodes in your neck and jaw near the affected tooth
• Bad taste or odor near the afflicted tooth

Causes of a Root Canal Infection:

• Tooth trauma
• Deep decay
• A very large filling
• Cracks and chips
• Severe gum disease

Root Canal Procedure

During this procedure, local anesthesia is used to exclude any discomfort. The area around the affected tooth is isolated and sterilized from bacteria. The dentist removes the infected or damaged dental pulp and thoroughly cleans out the canals of the affected tooth. After that the root canals are reshaped and sealed with the up-to-date biocompatible filling material - gutta percha (a rubber-like material). Then the tooth is restored either with a filling or a crown. It may take one or two appointments for the root canal procedure to be performed, depending on the treatment required. 

Prevention of Future Root Canal Treatment:

• Brush and floss your teeth regularly
• Regular dental checkups
• Have your teeth cleaned at least twice a year
• Have your cavities treated immediately
• Wear protective mouth gear while playing sports

For dental advice or attention, please call Alpha Dental Care today at 905-876-0200 and receive relief in a comfortable, pain-free environment. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable dentists are always ready to help.