If you’ve ever heard of a “root canal” and felt kind of nervous about it, you’re not alone. Root canal therapy is often wrapped in myths and misconceptions, which makes a lot of people think of it as a painful, complicated project. In fact, root canals are very common and avoid having to extract a tooth.
In this blog, we will delve into what root canal therapy in Saskatoon is, the steps to complete the treatment, and why it is actually good for your oral health. Let’s get started!
What is a Root Canal?
To start, let’s clarify what a root canal treatment is. A root canal is a dental procedure that is performed when the inside of your tooth, known as the pulp, has become infected or inflamed. This can happen when decay is deep enough to affect the pulp, the tooth has cracks, or due to trauma.
The pulp contains the blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue of the tooth, and when it becomes infected, it can feel very painful. The goal of a root canal is to remove the infected tissue, clean the insides of the tooth, and create a seal to prevent further infection.
Why is a Root Canal Required?
There are many theories surrounding the need for a root canal, or why your tooth may even need a root canal. Think of your tooth like a little castle, with layers of enamel keeping the soft inner pulp protected. When the bacteria breach the “defences” of your tooth castle, they can begin to damage your tooth, causing pain, swelling, and possibly even an abscess (a pus-filled eruption). This infection can spread to the jawbone and surrounding tissues if not contained, making the situation worse.
A root canal therapy is the answer when your tooth is too badly infected, but can still be saved. The tooth could die, and eventually, be extracted, leaving a hole in your mouth that can keep you from chewing and speaking properly. In most cases, it is usually better to save your natural tooth than it is to remove it.
The Phases of Root Canal Therapy
To this point, we have defined what a root canal is and why you may need one. Now we are going to define the actual process of root canal therapy, and more importantly, phase the process into easy-to-understand steps. Root canal therapy is usually done in one or two visits to the dentist, depending on the extent of the infection. Here is an overview of each step of the therapy. If you want to know which stage of root canal is most painful, read the complete blog.
Phase 1: Diagnosis and X-rays
Before any procedures begin, your dentist will confirm that a root canal is going to be needed. The process will begin with an examination of your tooth. You will then discuss your symptoms, which may include pain, swelling, etc. The dentist may request some X-rays so he can view your infection and damage. This allows the dentist to see what he is treating.
Phase 2: Numbing/Preparing
When the dentist is ready to perform the procedure, he will first use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. The local anesthesia will be used to ensure you do not feel any pain during the procedure. After the area is numbed, he will have to make a small opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp.
Phase 3: Removal of the Infected Tissue
Once the tooth has been accessed, the dentist will use special tools to remove the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth. This can be lengthy, as it is important for the dentist to remove any remaining pulp tissue and clean out the chamber. This part is kind of scary – just remember you won’t feel anything because of the anesthesia!. If you are still thinking, “What is a Stage 4 root canal?” read further to know.
Phase 4: Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canals
Once the pulp is removed, the dentist will clean and shape the inside of the tooth’s root canals. This step is essential because it ensures that the inside of the tooth is free of bacteria and prepared for sealing. The dentist may irrigate the canals with a disinfecting solution to ensure no bacteria remain.
Phase 5: Filling the Canals
After the canals are thoroughly cleaned, the dentist will fill them with a special material called gutta-percha. This material helps seal the tooth and prevent bacteria from re-entering. The tooth is now considered “sterile,” meaning that no further infection will occur if it’s properly sealed.
Phase 6: Sealing and Restoration
Finally, the dentist will place a temporary filling in the opening to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration can be applied. In most cases, a crown (a cap that covers the tooth) will be placed over the tooth to protect it from further damage and restore its strength. A crown will also help improve the tooth’s appearance if it has been damaged.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
The recovery after a root canal is generally quick and easy, especially since the infection is gone. You may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. It’s important to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it is fully restored with a crown to prevent any damage.
Where Saving Your Smile is Just the Beginning!
Root canal treatment may sound intimidating, but it’s actually a very common and effective way to save a tooth from extraction. By following the steps outlined above, your dentist can remove the infection, preserve your natural tooth, and restore your oral health. At Lakewood Dental, our skilled and compassionate team is here to help guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the best care possible. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your teeth, don’t wait! Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get the treatment you need to keep your smile healthy and bright.
Are you in need of a root canal treatment or simply want to learn more about your dental health options? Don’t wait for the pain to get worse—contact Lakewood Dental, one of the excellent dental clinic in Saskatoon, to book your consultation! Your smile is worth it.