The term root canal has two meanings. In terms of tooth anatomy, it's the area inside the root of a tooth—the parts of teeth that are beneath the gum line. Each tooth root is filled with nerves and vessels that extend up into the center of the tooth. However, the term more commonly refers to root canal therapy.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a type of dental treatment that aims to repair a tooth suffering from an infection inside its root. An infection in this area can be extremely painful, cause inflammation, and can result in the loss of the tooth when left untreated. Root canal therapy removes the infected tissue from a root canal and then fills and seals the canal to prevent further damage.
Who Needs a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy is usually recommended when an infection has reached the root of a tooth and the alternative would be to extract it. However, a root canal may also be recommended as a preventive measure to avoid future issues. For example, if a cavity has grown large enough to reach the center of the tooth leaving it vulnerable to infection. In some cases, a fracture in the tooth could cause an infection to reach the root.
What Happens During Root Canal Therapy?
A root canal treatment usually takes place over multiple visits, and the exact process depends on the severity and complexity of the infection. However, a typical root canal treatment involves the following steps:
The dentist numbs the area using a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the root canal.
Once numb, a small hole is drilled into the top of the tooth to access the canal and internal infection.
Using specialized instruments, the dentist carefully removes any infected tissue from within the root canal.
They then clean the canal, flushing out any infected material with water and an antibacterial solution.
The dentist will then use a temporary filling to seal the area until the next appointment (this may not always be necessary).
Your dentist will then permanently fill the root canal, often with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha, and seal up the opening in the tooth with a filling (your dentist might also suggest a crown as an additional layer of protection).
What Should I Expect After Root Canal Therapy?
Your tooth may feel sensitive for a few days. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the tooth until it has completely healed and follow any advice your dentist gives you to help ensure optimal results and long-term success.
If you think you might need a root canal, or if you're experiencing any of the symptoms associated with an infection of this kind, it's important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. We understand that the thought of undergoing a root canal is daunting and our dentists and staff here in Selkirk, Manitoba are experienced in providing this treatment with the utmost care and comfort. Contact us today to find out more about our services and how we can meet your dental needs.