Dental decay threatens your oral and overall health. The good news is, different dental solutions can be used to remove the infection and save your teeth. One such treatment is the root canal treatment.
The mere mention of the root canal therapy is enough to send a chill down your spine. However, contrary to common belief, endodontic treatment is not painful neither is it life-threatening. Below we answer some of the common root canal questions to give the information needed before you come for your root canal in NW Calgary.
What is Root Canal Treatment and Why Is It Done?
Endodontic treatment is done to remove the infected pulp, stop the infection, and preserve your teeth. Although most people use the term root canal to refer to the treatment, it is the natural cavity that houses the pulp. Our teeth have three layers: the enamel, dentine, and the pulp cavity. The pulp chamber or root canal cavity contains nerves and tissues that support the teeth during the development stage. The cavity, once it is infected it can cause pain and lead to the deterioration of the tissues and teeth. Not only that but if left unattended, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissue, hence the need for a root canal.Why Not Just Get a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction may seem like the ideal solution for a decayed tooth, but it’s not. The removal of the teeth leads to other dental problems that need expensive treatments. Furthermore, extraction leaves gaps in the gums that are detrimental to your dental health. These missing teeth will cause the surrounding teeth to shift and fill these spaces. Plus, it leads to the loss of the alveolar bone, causing jaw degeneration. Having a root canal in NW Calgary will help prevent these problems.What Happens If I Fail to Get the Root Canal Treatment?
The infection will spread to the rest to the mouth and may enter the bloodstream causing widespread inflammation. Also, it may lead to the loss of your permanent teeth which don’t grow back.How is the Endodontic Procedure Performed?
The root canal treatment is done in two dental visits and it involves a few steps:- Dental assessment. The dentist will do a radiograph of your teeth and gums to check the spread of the infection. Professional dental cleaning is done to remove any buildup.
- The dentist numbs the gums using the anesthesia, although sedation may be used if you have an overactive gag reflex. Next, the affected teeth will be separated from the rest with a sheet.
- With the dental tools, the dentist will remove the affected pulp and clean the chamber.
- The pulp chamber is reshaped and filled with a biocompatible material.
- A temporary dental filling may be used to close the cavity.
- On your final visit, a dental crown is used to restore the function and strength of the teeth.
Will There Be Pain?
No, you will not experience pain during the procedure because anesthesia is used. However, you can expect to have discomfort immediately after as the numbness starts to wear off. The discomfort and sensitivity will last for a short time but can be managed with pain relievers.How Long Does Recovery Take and What Can I Do?
A root canal can take a few days to heal, but you can hasten the process by:- Eating soft foods that do not require a lot of chewing
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
- Maintain proper dental hygiene
