Root Canals
Root Canal Treatment
Our dental experts at Gumtree Dental Care perform root canals in Stittsville. If you are experiencing any of the warning signs of nerve or pulp damage, it is vital that you see one of our professionals as soon as possible. When the nerve of a tooth becomes damaged, you can experience severe throbbing pain, and it can swell with infection. Another sign of nerve or pulp damage is discoloration of the tooth. When the nerve has become irreversibly damaged, the next step is to perform a root canal where the infected nerve is removed. Our professionals are highly experienced in performing accurate root canals and preserving as much of the original tooth as possible.
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Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
A root canal is a necessary treatment when the nerve of a tooth has become damaged beyond repair. The usual causes of nerve damage are trauma, cracks, extreme wear, extensive dental work, and gum disease or decay. If a damaged tooth goes untreated, it can lead to severe pain, swelling, and infection that can spread throughout the mouth. If the infection is not stopped, it can even lead to a dental abscess which requires immediate care. It is very important that if you notice the signs of nerve damage, you contact our professionals immediately.
How Does a Root Canal Work?
When you visit our office for a suspected nerve infection, we will first inspect the affected tooth and diagnose the situation. If we determine that a root canal is the next necessary step, we will walk you through the process. A root canal, or endodontic treatment, targets the infected nerve or pulp of the tooth. Our professionals will remove the infected areas and carefully clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth. If the natural tooth can be saved, we will simply fill and seal the canal space with a rubber material known as gutta percha to prevent further infection. If necessary, our dentists will place a post in the root canal to prevent the crown from fracturing. In this case, crowns are often advised in order to prevent fracturing, which could lead to having the tooth extracted.
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Finding Relief From Tooth Pain
Our dental professionals are prepared to treat your tooth pain and give you the relief you deserve. When it comes to tooth nerve damage, it can be extremely unpleasant. Often, it will be hard to eat anything that is hot or cold without feeling pain. Your gums may be swollen and red from infection as well. During these circumstances, it is important that you contact us so we can evaluate the situation and take action as soon as possible. Leaving an infected tooth untreated can lead to more significant problems. Our goal is to treat your concern quickly and accurately so that you can continue on with your daily activities without worrying about tooth pain. Reach out to us today to be seen by our dental professionals.
FAQs about Root Canals
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure used to treat an infected or severely damaged tooth. During treatment, the infected pulp is removed, the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, and the canals are sealed to prevent future infection. In most cases, a dental crown is recommended afterward to restore the tooth's strength and function.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if you experience persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers, swelling around the gums, pain when chewing, or a darkened tooth. However, some infected teeth cause little or no pain, so a dental examination and X-rays are the best way to determine whether root canal therapy is needed.
Is a root canal painful?
Modern root canal treatment is performed using local anesthesia, making the procedure similar in comfort to receiving a dental filling. In fact, root canal therapy is designed to relieve the pain caused by an infected tooth, not create it. Some mild soreness afterward is normal and typically resolves within a few days.
How long does a root canal take?
Most root canal treatments can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the tooth and the extent of the infection. After the root canal is completed, your dentist may recommend placing a dental crown to protect and strengthen the treated tooth.
Can a tooth last after a root canal?
Yes. With proper restoration and good oral hygiene, a tooth that has received root canal treatment can last for many years, and often a lifetime. Brushing, flossing, regular dental checkups, and professional cleanings all help protect the treated tooth and maintain your overall oral health.
