If you require root canal treatment in Downtown Vancouver, you will probably be apprehensive, as “root canal” can be a term that scares most people. Thankfully, it is a routine and effective procedure meant to save your natural tooth and stop a toothache. Knowing what is involved in the procedure can help ease your concern and better prepare you for your appointment.
What is A Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal treatment is a dental procedure to restore and save a tooth that has become infected or decayed. “Root canal” is the term for the natural opening inside the tooth containing the pulp (nerve tissue). When such pulp gets infected or inflamed as a result of deep decay, frequent dental treatment, or a fractured tooth, it needs to be removed to avoid further damage.
Signs You Might Need A Root Canal
Your dentist will also examine your symptoms and do diagnostic tests, including X-rays. Some of the most common indications that may call for a root canal are:
- Persistent toothache, especially on pressure or chewing
- Spontaneous tingling or pain with temperature extremes
- Tooth discoloration or darkening
- Swollen or tender gums surrounding the tooth
- Pimple-like recurrent on gums (abscess sign)
After a proper examination, our dentist in Downtown Vancouver will be able to decide if a root canal is appropriate or not.
Step-by-Step: What Occurs in A Root Canal Procedure?
Knowing what happens makes it less intimidating. At Key Dental Clinic, we use a dental microscope with high magnification and the latest techniques to achieve ideal results.
A root canal process usually involves the following steps:
1. Initial Consultation and X-rays
The dentist starts with a good check-up, usually involving X-rays to determine the contour of the root canals and whether or not infection is found in the bone around it.
2. Anesthesia And Tooth Isolation
To be treated painlessly, the tooth is first locally anesthetized before any treatment. A rubber dam is then fitted over the tooth to isolate the tooth and keep it as dry and free from saliva as possible during treatment.
3. Access Opening
A tiny access point is carefully created on the tooth’s surface to reach the inner pulp and root canals.
4. Shaping And Cleaning
With the help of small dental tools, dead or infected pulp tissue is extracted. The canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to eliminate bacteria and prevent further infection.
5. Canal packing
After cleaning, the vacant canals are sealed with a biocompatible substance known as gutta-percha. The dentist seals the opening so as not to admit bacteria.
6. Restoration
A root-canaled tooth will most commonly need to be crowned to secure it for form and function. Your dentist will take impressions and put on a temporary filling or crown until the permanent one is available.
What to Expect After the Procedure?
Healing following a root canal is normally uneventful. You can have some temporary pain or sensitivity lasting a few days, which can be alleviated with painkillers available over the counter. Our dentist near you will provide specific aftercare and may schedule a follow-up to check on healing.
Tips for care following treatment are:
- Do not bite on the treated tooth until it is complete
- Practice good oral hygiene – brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist
- Inform your local dentist of any sudden pain or swelling at once
Common Myths About Root Canals
Let’s dispel some of the myths:
Myth: Undergoing a root canal causes severe pain.
Truth: Contemporary dental methods and anesthetics render the treatment no more than slightly unpleasant, like getting a filling.
Myth: It’s simpler to just pull the tooth.
Truth: Having your tooth restored with a root canal generally better serves the chewing purpose and overall oral health.
Myth: Root canals require multiple visits.
Truth: Most root canal treatment is done in one or two visits.
Preserve Your Smile With Precision And Care From Key Dental Clinic!
There is nothing to be afraid of when it comes to a root canal; it is a very successful procedure that can remove your pain and preserve your smile for years to come. Knowing what to expect from the root canal procedure, patients are more at ease with their dental care. Reserve your appointment with Key Dental Clinic today, your comfort and smile are our main priority!