A root canal is a routine dental procedure that relieves pain caused by an inflamed, infected, or dying tooth. While some patients may feel uneasy about getting a root canal or are uncertain that they need one, dentists ensure the procedure is comfortable and safe.
Why Root Canals Are Necessary
When your tooth's pulp becomes exposed, infection can result. This problem can happen when a tooth has deep decay or has experienced dental trauma. Teeth with repeated dental work or broken restorations (crowns or fillings) may also need root canal treatment.
What Are the Signs That I May Need a Root Canal?
- Severe tooth pain that worsens when biting or chewing
- Persistent tooth pain
- Tooth pain that spreads to the face, jaw, or neighboring teeth
- Swollen gums
- Loose tooth
- Gray or black discoloration on the tooth
- Tooth pain that goes away briefly and returns worse than before
The Root Canal Procedure
The procedure involves making a small opening in the tooth's crown and removing the pulp from the crown and the root canals with a series of small files. The dentist cleans and disinfects the tooth before refilling it with a biocompatible material that seals out contamination and prevents reinfection. The dentist then places a filling or crown to complete the restoration.
GentleWave: A New Alternative
Bisson Dentistry offers the GentleWave root canal procedure. This advanced method uses broad-spectrum acoustic energy and disinfecting fluids to clean and sanitize the tooth's interior. GentleWave is minimally invasive and reduces the chance of needing a repeat procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
Will my tooth hurt after a root canal?
Your tooth will feel much better than before you received treatment, but you may experience lingering soreness as the infection clears. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics, and over-the-counter pain medications are usually sufficient to combat discomfort. Your tooth should feel better within a few days.
What happens if I choose not to get a root canal?
A tooth needing a root canal will not heal on its own. You may jeopardize your tooth if you do not get a root canal when your dentist believes you need it. Infected teeth may accumulate pus that damages the bone holding your tooth in place. You may lose the tooth and need a costly restoration like a bridge or implant.
The tooth infection may also spread, turning systemic and causing general illness. When infections run uncontrolled, they may cause severe health complications.
Call Bisson Dentistry
If you experience these symptoms, you may need a root canal. A root canal is nothing to fear: it will relieve pain and improve oral health. You may be able to save your tooth from extraction by placing a dental crown or filling.
Call our Guelph, ON, office at 519-821-3561 for more information on root canals and how they can help you.