What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure to removed infected pulp from your tooth. Pulp is the soft tissue — nerves and blood vessels — found inside a narrow canal that begins at the tooth root and travels up into the center of your tooth.
When pulp becomes infected, a root canal is the only treatment option that eliminates the problem while preserving your natural tooth.
How does pulp inside your tooth become infected?
When you have a cracked or decayed tooth, bacteria can penetrate through the outer enamel and reach the pulp. In many cases, your gums also become infected.
The symptoms associated with this type of infection include:
- Severe pain to the touch or when biting down
- Swollen and tender gums
- Bump on the gum near the affected tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
How is a root canal performed?
The first thing to know about a root canal is that you’ll be comfortable throughout the procedure because your dentist administers the appropriate anesthesia. Most patients have a pain-free root canal with local anesthesia, but if you’re anxious, other sedation options are available.
Your procedure begins by removing all the pulp using a specialized tool made to reach the soft tissues. After cleaning and disinfecting the canal, your dentist fills the space with a rubbery material that supports the tooth, then seals the small hole used to access the pulp.
Your dentist at Applegarth Dental may recommend a crown to restore the tooth’s strength and maintain normal function. A crown is needed when a crack or cavity weakened your tooth.
How long will your root canal last?
Following a root canal, your tooth can last the rest of your life, as long as you follow a diligent daily routine of brushing and flossing. It’s possible, however, for the tooth or a crown to become damaged. If you don’t get a crown, the tooth can also become decayed.
Should your tooth or crown develop a crack, chip, or decay, you’ll need dental treatment to keep the tooth healthy.
At the first sign of a toothache or dental pain, call Applegarth Dental or book an appointment online for treatment to protect your tooth.
