Root Canal Therapy

Root canal treatment is performed to save a tooth from extraction when it becomes diseased or is dying. More specifically, a root canal is performed when the pulp, or inner tissues of the tooth, becomes infected or exposed. Teeth are usually protected with a hard layer of enamel, but when this outer layer becomes cracked or decayed, decay-causing bacteria can gradually penetrate the tooth and build to an infection.

If left untreated, these bacteria can reach the innermost part of the tooth – otherwise known as the pulp. Since pulp contains nerves, connective tissues, and blood vessels, it can contribute to severe pain. Dental abscess and possible tooth loss could follow. Since teeth are unable to heal themselves after disease or trauma to the nerve, root canal therapy can be a critical dental treatment to save your teeth.

While there’s no better way to detect the need for root canal treatment than through a dental exam at Odeon Dental, here are a few tell-tale signs that it might be time to make an appointment with us:

• Severe toothache or pain when chewing
• Tooth pain that wakes you up in the middle of the night, affecting your quality of sleep.
• Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
• Tender or swollen gums
• Pimple on your gum
• Tooth discolouration or darkening of the enamel
• Pain and pressure in your teeth

Even if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, keep in mind that the final determination about a tooth’s need for root canal treatment must be based on your dentist’s exam. Through the advanced technology here at Odeon Dental, we are able to ensure that an accurate diagnosis is made.

Saving your natural teeth is our first priority, but there are times when Root Canal Treatment is not the best treatment option. In cases where removing the tooth is the next step, we will discuss your long-term options for replacing the missing teeth, such as Dental Implants.

If you think you might benefit from root canal treatment, Odeon Dental is here to help!

• A local anesthetic is given to numb the area so that you do not feel any pain during the procedure.
• We then make an opening in the tooth.
• The nerve and pulp of the infected tooth will be removed from the inner chamber.
• The inside of the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and sealed. The sealing process prevents bacteria from getting back inside and damaging gum tissue.
• The root canals are then filled with a fine rubberlike material.
• The root canal is sealed off, leaving the filling material in place.
• Once the inside of the tooth has been treated, your tooth will be restored to give it a healthy overall appearance.
• After your procedure, your teeth may be a bit more sensitive than normal.
• You will have to be aware that you may still have some ongoing pain or infection until the inflammation decreases. Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen can help. You will also want to steer clear of excessive chewing on the tooth until all the tenderness is gone.
• If you suffer continued pain, we ask that you call us at any time after your procedure. Our Odeon Dental Team is here to help!