Also known as endodontic treatment, root canal therapy is the most efficient solution if a patient’s pulp is infected or inflamed. Some of the causes of infections and inflammation in the pulp include repeated dental procedure on the tooth, deep tooth decay, or a chip or crack on the tooth. Also, trauma to a tooth may result in pulp damage even if the tooth doesn’t have visible cracks or chips. Pain and abscess are some of the consequences of ignoring an inflamed or infected pulp.
Why not pull the tooth?
Some patients still believe that extracting a tooth that hurts is better than root canal treatment. At King West Dentistry, we strongly believe that by saving a patient’s tooth through the root canal procedure, we also save them money, time, and other related dental problems particularly with other teeth near the tooth being treated.
Research shows that the root canal procedure is effective. It is nearly impossible to undergo a subsequent root canal procedure on the same tooth due to a new infection. Your dentist at King West Dentistry will work tirelessly to ensure that your root canal procedure becomes a lasting solution for the inflamed or infected tooth pulp.
Do I need root canal treatment?
To establish whether or not you need root canal treatment, consult with your dentist at King West Dentistry. He or she can recommend a root canal procedure if you have the following:
- Pimples or swelling on the gums
- Severe toothache or tooth pain
- High sensitivity to cold and heat
- Trauma or injury to the tooth
- Gum tenderness or swelling
In some cases, the infected tooth may not have caused pain to the patient. Our dentist could recommend a root canal procedure to prevent further decay or damage to the tooth. So, the best way to know if you are a candidate of the root canal procedure is to consult with one of the experts at King West Dentistry.
Now I need root canal treatment. What’s next?
Depending on some circumstances, a root canal procedure may require one or more visits to our dental facility. Here’s what will happen during the process:
- The expert numbs the tooth to be treated
- Put a piece of rubber around the tooth to keep it dry
- The dentist will use appropriate dental instruments to remove the decaying tissue.
- Creates an access opening on top of the tooth. Root canal files are carefully placed into the opening to remove nerve tissue, pulp or bacteria.
- The next step involves cleaning the tooth and sealing it permanently or temporarily.
A week after the root canal procedures, you should visit your dentist at King West Dentistry for a checkup. The expert will fill the cavity with special dental materials. Lastly, the teeth must have a cap (crown) to aid in the healing process.
