A root canal treatment is performed to repair and restore a severely damaged tooth. It is done by a general dentist or an endodontist, a dentist with specialized training in treating dental problems relating to the inner tooth.
A root canal procedure is often necessary when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. The tooth pulp is the inner part of the tooth made up of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues that help the tooth grow. A pulp infection can occur due to severe decay, multiple dental procedures on the same tooth, high-impact injuries, or a chip or a crack in the tooth.
Common symptoms of a pulp infection include tooth pain, gum redness and swelling, and heat in the gums.
During a root canal procedure, the dentist or endodontist will remove bacteria from the infected tooth to prevent reinfection and save the tooth.
Although many individuals are nervous about having a root canal treatment, it is one of the most common dental procedures in Canada. Each year, millions of people undergo root canal treatment.
What does a root canal procedure entail?
A root canal procedure is simple. It primarily involves the removal of the infected tooth pulp and filling the canals. The steps of a root canal treatment include:
- Preparing the area
The dentist or endodontist will inject local anesthesia into your gums to numb the area or use a topical anesthetic to numb the tooth. Once the area is numb, the dentist or endodontist will place a dental dam to isolate the affected tooth and cover the rest of the teeth. - Removing the pulp and cleaning the roots
The dentist or endodontist will then drill through the tooth and carefully remove the infected tooth pulp. They will then use an antiseptic solution to clean and disinfect the root canals to eliminate bacteria. - Shaping and filling the canals
The endodontist or dentist will enlarge and shape the root canal. Once shaped, the canals are cleaned a second time. The dentist or endodontist will then fill the canal with a dental filling or cover the tooth with a dental crown.
What should you expect during recovery?
When the numbing agent wears off, your gums may swell, and you may experience some pain. You can treat these symptoms with over-the-counter pain medication.
You should be able to resume your routine the day after the procedure and recover completely within a few days.
Do you need root canal treatment in Surrey?
If you believe you need root canal treatment in Surrey, visit us at Newton Village Dental Clinic. At Newton Village Dental Clinic, we recognize that all our patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care that reflects their specific needs. Our experienced and talented dental team is committed to ensuring every visit is a comfortable and rewarding dental experience.
Give us a call today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our root canal treatments. Let us help restore your oral health and your smile.
