When it comes to options for taking care of your smile, root canal treatment in Coquitlam is one of the most important treatments. While it may not be the most pleasant-sounding process, modern dentistry has made root canals extremely comfortable, safe and incredible at saving teeth that may be in danger of being lost. Let’s take a closer look at why root canals matter, a few signs you need one, and how they can continue to make your smile healthy.
What is the Purpose of a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to remove infection from the inside of a tooth. Teeth have a soft tissue called pulp underneath the hard outer enamel and dentin that contains the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. If the pulp is infected by decay, injury or repeated procedures, it can cause extreme pain and potentially tooth loss.
The purpose of root canal treatment is to:
- Eliminate infection—essentially removing the bacteria from the pulp will eliminate the spread of disease.
- Relieve pain—In addressing the inflammation and irritation of the nerve, the root canal procedure will help alleviate tooth pain.
- Save your natural tooth – In preserving the tooth structure, a root canal procedure will help you continue to chew and smile as you normally would.
- Prevent further dental work – By treating the infection early, you can avoid receiving treatment that is more costly and/or invasive.
How Can You Tell If You Need a Root Canal?
While only a dentist can tell you definitively if you need a root canal, there are some warning signs you should look out for. You may need a root canal if:
- Severe tooth pain that lasts after eating or drinking something hot or cold.
- Sensitivity to temperature that does not go away quickly.
- Swollen or sensitive gums around the affected tooth.
- Discoloration of the tooth, either darker or greyish.
- A little bump on the gums around the tooth, sometimes called a dental abscess.
Even if the pain has gone away, there could still be an infection. Hence, regular dental checkups with a dentist in Coquitlam are crucial because, through the intervention of preventative dental care, your dentist can save you from a lot of emergencies.
Why is Root Canal Treatment So Important?
When you need a root canal, do it sooner rather than later! By beginning definitive treatment promptly, you defend the tooth as well as your health. Untreated tooth infections can become a danger by spreading to other areas of the mouth, or worse yet, the infection can move to the jawbone, causing much more serious health concerns.
Some of the benefits include:
- You are keeping your natural tooth rather than replacing it with an implant or bridge.
- You are maintaining bite alignment and chewing function.
- You are avoiding the possibility of infection spreading to other parts of the body.
- You are keeping your smile looking natural and feeling confident.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Root canals are simpler than most think:
- Numbing the tooth—Local anaesthetic means you can stay comfortable for the duration of the procedure.
- Taking out the infected pulp—The dentist creates a small opening and cleans out the infection.
- Cleaning and sealing the space—After the root canals are disinfected, they will also be filled, leaving no area for potential reinfection.
- Restoring the tooth—Finally, the tooth will be filled or covered (crowned) to protect it and allow you to use it again.
Usually, the experience is described similarly to having a regular filling placed, with only minor soreness after.
Lincoln Dental Center – Protect Your Smile Today
If you are wondering if you might need a root canal, the safest way to find out is to have a professional evaluation. We strive to keep your natural teeth and return you to comfort so you can smile confidently again.
Don’t wait if the pain is getting unbearable; the earlier you see us, the quicker the recovery and the better the chance of saving your tooth. Visit us at Lincoln Dental Centre, book an appointment today and start the journey to a healthier smile.