Many adults experience tooth pain that may be due to an infection of the tooth’s pulp. If this is the case, your dentist in Okotoks may recommend a root canal treatment to restore the functionality of your smile. When this deep layer of a patient’s tooth becomes damaged, they may experience tooth abscess or bone loss if the issue is not treated soon.
Root canal treatment is designed to remove all bacteria from an unhealthy tooth canal. The dentist gives the patient a form of anesthesia for the procedure to numb the area and avoid discomfort. They will then open the tooth to reach the infection and proceed to remove it. Once all the damaged part of the tooth has been cleared and cleaned of bacteria, the area is filled and sealed. The filling will prevent any future infection from forming and attacking the teeth again.
When is a Root Canal Recommended?
There are several reasons our dentists consider you may need root canal therapy. The procedure could be performed for patients who have experienced a cracked tooth from an injury, cracked teeth due to genetics, a severe cavity, or issues from previous procedures such as dental fillings. Patients will generally feel symptoms that can help them determine if a root canal would be the ideal treatment for them. If you are unsure what symptoms you are experiencing or if you need a root canal procedure, consult with a dentist near you.
A few symptoms that can indicate the need for this procedure are:
- Severe pain when chewing or biting down into your teeth
- Gum irritation, similar to pimples
- A cracked tooth
- High sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures
- Swollen gums
- Signs of tooth decay
Benefits of a Root Canal
After this procedure, the patient will experience less pain and swelling associated with the damaged tooth. Mild discomfort may be present afterwards but should subside in a few days. Once there is no longer an infection, a patient’s oral health will improve, and their tooth will be more protected against further decay.
One of the great benefits of root canal therapy in Okotoks is that the dentist will be able to save your natural tooth, and you won’t need complicated processes such as receiving implants due to tooth loss.
Points to Keep in Mind During The Process
Managing Any Pain
Your dentist will ensure the area where the procedure is being performed is numb and you aren’t uncomfortable. Once the procedure is over, they may prescribe you certain medications to help speed up your recovery after your appointment.
Protecting Your Mouth
During the procedure, your dentist will ensure the surrounding area of your tooth is protected. They’ll most likely place a rubber dam around your affected tooth to ensure the procedure doesn’t affect any other area in your mouth.
Removal of the Infection
Your dentist will perform the procedure with utmost care and remove the infected pulp as carefully as possible. They will use a special dental instrument that will allow them to scrape out the infection thoroughly without touching any nerves.
Your Tooth Will be Fully Sterilized After
Once the procedure is over, you won’t need to worry about any debris being left behind. When the tooth is filled, it will have strong protection against any further damage.
Follow a Good Oral Hygiene Routine
To prevent future infections from developing on another tooth or in the gums of the recently filled teeth, make sure you follow a good oral hygiene routine at home and visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
Interested in Root Canal Therapy Near You?
Cimarron Dental Wellness offers a variety of procedures to treat an injured tooth and restore a patient’s oral health. If you are interested in root canal therapy or have been looking for a quality dental clinic near you, contact us today to book an appointment!