Save Your Smile with Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is an essential dental procedure that aims to save severely damaged or infected teeth. Here at Fresh Dental Edmonton, we understand that the thought of a root canal can be daunting. However, our dedicated dental professionals are committed to providing you with a comfortable and stress-free experience.
Root canals are effective in removing infection, relieving pain, and preserving your natural tooth, ultimately avoiding the need for extraction. With the use of advanced techniques and cutting-edge technology, our team ensures a precise and efficient procedure to restore your dental health and bring back your confident smile.
Whether you are suffering from severe toothache, sensitivity, or swelling, our team of qualified dental professionals is here to support you through every step of your root canal treatment in Edmonton, AB.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal, also referred to as endodontic therapy, is a treatment that aims to eliminate infected or damaged pulp from within a tooth. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that can become infected as a result of untreated cavities, injury, or extensive dental procedures. By removing the infected pulp, the tooth can be saved and future infections can be prevented, enabling you to preserve your natural teeth and avoid more invasive treatments such as extractions or implants.
When is a Root Canal Necessary?
Root canals are often necessary when the pulp of the tooth is infected or damaged. Look out for these common signs that may indicate you need a root canal:
- Persistent tooth pain that may be spontaneous or unprovoked
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Swollen or tender gums
- Facial swelling
- Darkening of the tooth
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact our dental office in Edmonton, AB to schedule an appointment. Acting early can help save your tooth and avoid any additional complications.
Types of Root Canals
Standard Root Canal
This is the most frequently performed root canal procedure on a tooth with infected or damaged pulp. It includes cleaning, shaping, and filling the root canals to remove infection and preserve the tooth.
Root Canal Retreatment
There are instances where a tooth that has had a root canal may become reinfected or experience new problems. Root canal retreatment includes reopening the tooth, removing the previous filling material, and addressing any new infections.
Apicoectomy
An apicoectomy is a surgical procedure done when a regular root canal is unsuccessful in treating an infection. During this procedure, the dentist removes the tip of the tooth's root along with any infected tissue around it, and then seals the area with a root-end filling.
Pediatric Pulpotomy
This treatment is done on baby teeth that have infected pulp. The dentist will extract the infected pulp from the pulp chamber while keeping the healthy pulp in the roots untouched. A stainless steel crown is then placed on the tooth to protect it until the adult tooth grows in.
The Root Canal Procedure at Fresh Dental Edmonton
Knowing what to anticipate during a root canal can ease any worries and make sure you are ready for the procedure. Below are the key steps you can expect when getting a root canal at our dental office in Edmonton, AB:
Numbing the Area
The dentist will begin by using a local anesthetic to numb the affected area, ensuring you won't feel any pain during the procedure. You may experience a slight pinch as the anesthetic is administered, but it will soon numb the area.
Isolating the Tooth
A rubber dam is used to isolate the tooth, keeping it dry and saliva-free to prevent bacteria contamination. This helps ensure a clean environment throughout the procedure.
Accessing the Pulp
The dentist creates a small opening in the top of the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals, enabling them to extract the infected or damaged pulp.
Cleaning and Shaping
The dentist uses specialized instruments to remove the infected pulp, shape the root canals, and irrigate the area to eliminate any debris. This process ensures that the canals are adequately prepared for filling.
Filling the Canals
After the canals are cleaned, they are filled with a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, and sealed with dental cement. This process helps prevent future infections and restores the tooth's structural integrity.
Temporary Filling
A temporary filling is inserted into the access cavity to safeguard the tooth until a permanent crown can be created. This interim restoration aids in preserving the tooth's functionality and aesthetics.
Root Canal Aftercare and Recovery
After your root canal, you may feel some slight discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. You can typically manage any pain with over-the-counter pain relievers. It's important to avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent crown is placed to prevent any potential fractures.
Getting a Permanent Crown
A follow-up appointment is necessary to place a permanent crown on the treated tooth. The crown is custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly, restoring its strength and appearance. This final step ensures that your tooth is fully functional and protected.
Deciding between a Dentist and an Endodontist
While general dentists can perform root canals, endodontists are specialists in this procedure and have specific training to handle more complex cases. An endodontist in Edmonton, AB is highly skilled in diagnosing and treating tooth pulp disorders. If your case is complicated or requires retreatment, our dental team will refer you to our endodontist for specialized care.
Why Choose Our Clinic for Root Canals in Edmonton, AB?
At our dental practice in Edmonton, AB, we prioritize providing exceptional care and ensuring your comfort throughout the root canal procedure. Here are some compelling reasons to choose us for your root canal treatment:
- Experienced Professionals: Our team of dentists and endodontists have extensive experience in performing root canals, ensuring high-quality care.
- Advanced Technology: We use the latest techniques and equipment, including dental microscopy and digital radiology, to perform root canals efficiently and effectively.
- Patient-Centered Care: Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities. We strive to make your experience as pain-free and stress-free as possible.
- Comprehensive Follow-Up: We provide thorough aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.
