Root Canal: Understanding the Procedure and Why it is Important

root canal treatment

If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or swelling in your gums, you may require a root canal treatment. The root canal is a common dental procedure that is performed to save a damaged or infected tooth from extraction. At Signature Smilez Family Dental we provide root canal services to our patients in Edmonton, Alberta, to help them alleviate their pain and restore their oral health.

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure that involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues, and it helps to keep the tooth alive and healthy. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged due to decay, trauma, or injury, it can cause severe pain and discomfort.

During a root canal treatment, the dentist will remove the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth and clean and disinfect the root canal system. After the root canal is thoroughly cleaned, the dentist will fill the canal with a special material called gutta-percha and seal it with a dental filling or crown. The filling or crown will help to protect the tooth and restore its function.

Why are Root Canals Important?

Root canal treatment is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to save the natural tooth and prevents the need for extraction. If the infected or damaged tooth is left untreated, it can lead to the spread of infection to the surrounding teeth and gums, which can cause more severe dental problems.

Secondly, root canal treatment can help to alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by the infected or damaged tooth. Many people who undergo root canal treatment report a significant improvement in their symptoms and a restoration of their oral health.

Thirdly, root canal treatment is a cost-effective option compared to tooth extraction and replacement options. Dental implants, bridges, or dentures can be more expensive than root canal treatment, which is why it is a preferred option for many patients.

What to Expect During a Root Canal Treatment?

At Signature Smiles Family Dental at Namao Centre in Edmonton, Alberta, we understand that root canal treatment can be intimidating for some patients. Our experienced dentists and dental team will make sure that you are comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure.

The root canal treatment typically involves the following steps:

  1. An initial consultation with the dentist to assess your dental health and determine the need for root canal treatment.
  2. Dr. Jacob will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth to ensure that you do not feel any pain during the procedure.
  3. Dr. Jacob will make a small hole in the top of the tooth to access the pulp.
  4. Dr. Jacob will use specialized instruments to remove the infected or damaged pulp from the root canal system.
  5. Dr. Jacob will clean and disinfect the root canal system to remove any remaining bacteria and debris.
  6. Dr. Jacob will fill the root canal system with gutta-percha, a rubber-like material, to prevent bacteria from entering the tooth.
  7. Dr. Jacob will seal the tooth with a filling or crown to restore its function and protect it from further damage.

After the root canal treatment, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. You should also avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the dentist has placed a permanent filling or crown.

Conclusion

Root canal treatment is a safe and effective procedure that can help to save a damaged or infected tooth from extraction. At Signature Smilez Family Dental at Namao Centre in Edmonton, we provide comprehensive root canal services to our patients, utilizing the latest dental technology and techniques to ensure the best possible outcome. Our dentists have years of experience in performing root canal treatments and have helped numerous patients in Edmonton, Alberta, to restore their oral health and alleviate their pain and discomfort.

If you are experiencing tooth pain or any other symptoms due to dental problems, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our dental team. We will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums and determine the best course of treatment to restore your dental health. With our compassionate care and personalized approach, we are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.