Do you think the only solution to a badly infected tooth is an extraction?

Then think again.

Because there is a solution that will remove the pain and infection and save the natural tooth.

This article tells you how a root canal treatment can save your tooth.

What is a root canal treatment?

A root canal treatment is a dental procedure where the infected innermost layer of the tooth, the pulp, is removed from the tooth.

The pulp contains the nerves, connective tissues, and blood supply of the tooth.

A cavity or tooth infection can cause excruciating pain when it reaches the pulp. 

The treated tooth is then filled with a biomimetic material and sealed.

It is then covered with a porcelain crown.

This procedure is an alternative to tooth extraction.

It removes the infected pulp from the tooth, alleviates pain, and saves the natural tooth.

How do you know if you need a root canal?

If you notice these symptoms in your mouth, you might need a root canal treatment:

• Excruciating pain in a tooth that already had a cavity
• Extreme sensitivity to hot and cold foods
• A chipped or cracked tooth that has turned black
• Swollen, tender, or darkened gums 

What are the advantages of a root canal treatment?

There are several advantages of a root canal treatment:

• Saves the natural tooth: Getting a tooth extracted can initially relieve pain and stop the spread of infection. However, it has several downsides. If an extracted tooth is not replaced, the gap in your gums can cause the adjacent teeth to shift. Over time, this can lead to malocclusion and the loosening of the rest of your teeth. An RCT saves your natural tooth and protects your smile.
• Alleviates pain: A root canal is recommended when the tooth infection has already reached the tooth’s pulp. This is extremely painful. Once the tooth pulp is extracted, the pain is alleviated, and normal function of the tooth is restored. 
• Avoiding future problems: A tooth undergoing an RCT is unlikely to be reinfected again. This tooth can last a lifetime with proper care and hygiene maintenance. You also avoid the hassle of getting your tooth replaced after getting an RCT. Make sure to follow all the instructions given by your dentist after the procedure is done.

What happens during a root canal treatment?

If you are worried about what happens during a root canal treatment, here is an overview of the entire procedure: 

• Your dentist or endodontist will take an X-ray to determine the extent of the infection and damage to the teeth. They may ask for additional tests to determine the severity of your condition. This will also help them decide if a root canal treatment will be the perfect option for you. 
• They will then inject anesthesia to numb the teeth and surrounding gum areas. This will ensure that you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. 
• Your tooth will be isolated using a rubber dam. This will keep the area dry. A hole is then drilled into the infected tooth. The pulp is removed using a tiny dental instrument. 
• The empty pulp chamber will then be cleaned and disinfected. Your dentist will then fill your root canals with gutta-percha. This is a rubbery dental material that will prevent future infections.  
• The tooth will then be protected using a dental crown. A tooth becomes more brittle and prone to fracture after removing the pulp. Crown placement is a crucial step in root canal therapy to prevent this. Your dentist will take an impression for a custom crown and give you a temporary crown to protect the treated tooth. You will get the final crown after two or three weeks.

How to take care of your teeth after a root canal?

Here are a few tips to care for your teeth after getting the tooth root canal treated: 

• Eat soft foods for at least two days after the treatment. This will prevent any damage to the filling or crown. Also, avoid chewing on the side of the treated tooth.
• Take all the prescribed medications so that the tooth heals properly.
• Maintaining your oral hygiene is important. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and an antibacterial mouthwash twice daily, and floss your teeth at night. 
• Some discomfort is normal. However, extreme pain is abnormal. Contact your dentist if you experience pain that is causing you extreme discomfort. 

Key takeaways

At D’Arcy Dental, we have a team of skilled dental professionals with years of experience behind them. 

We provide top-notch services at an affordable cost to all our patients.

We also have the latest high-tech equipment that ensures your treatment is accurate, effective, and painless. 

If you are looking for a tooth root canal or denture clinic in Okotoks, don’t hesitate to contact us.