A toothache is never a pleasant experience, especially when it stems from an infected tooth nerve. Often, this discomfort arises due to deep decay, trauma, or untreated cavities that allow bacteria to penetrate the innermost part of the tooth, infecting the nerve tissue.
When such an infection occurs, a root canal procedure might be necessary to alleviate the pain and salvage the tooth.
What is a Root Canal Procedure?
Contrary to common misconceptions, a root canal is not as daunting as its reputation suggests. It is a dental treatment aimed at repairing and saving a tooth that is severely infected or decayed.
The procedure involves removing the infected nerve tissue, also known as the pulp, cleaning the tooth’s interior, and sealing it to prevent further infection.
Symptoms of an Infected Tooth Nerve
Recognizing the signs of an infected tooth nerve is crucial to seeking timely dental care. Some common symptoms include persistent and intense tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling of the gums, a pimple-like bump on the gums, or discoloration of the affected tooth.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a dentist in Vancouver promptly to prevent the infection from worsening.
The Root Canal Procedure
Before commencing the root canal procedure, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination and might take X-rays to assess the extent of the infection. The actual procedure typically involves several steps:
- Anaesthesia: To ensure comfort during the procedure, local anaesthesia is administered to numb the area around the infected tooth.
- Accessing the Pulp: The dentist creates a small opening in the tooth’s crown to access the infected pulp chamber and canals.
- Removing the Infected Tissue: Specialized tools are used to carefully remove the infected pulp and clean the tooth’s interior. This step is crucial to eliminating bacteria and preventing further infections.
- Filling and Sealing: Once the interior is cleaned, the tooth is filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha to seal the canals. It helps to prevent recontamination and reinforces the tooth’s structure.
- Restoration: In most cases, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy in Vancouver will require a crown or filling to provide additional protection and restore its functionality. This step might be performed during the same visit or at subsequent appointments.
Post-Procedure Care
After a root canal procedure, following your dentist’s instructions for proper care is essential. It may include avoiding chewing on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, and attending follow-up appointments to ensure the tooth is healing correctly.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment alleviates the pain associated with an infected tooth nerve and offers several benefits. It enables you to retain your natural tooth, maintains proper chewing function, prevents neighbouring teeth from excessive wear, and restores your smile’s aesthetics.
Final Thoughts
While the thought of a root canal might evoke anxiety for some, it’s a highly effective procedure to preserve your natural tooth and relieve the discomfort caused by an infected tooth nerve. Consulting a qualified dentist near you at the onset of symptoms can prevent complications and help restore your oral health.
Remember, maintaining regular dental check-ups and practicing good oral hygiene is key to preventing dental issues and minimizing the need for extensive treatments like root canals.
City Square Dental Centre Can Treat Infected Tooth With Root Canal Procedure
At City Square Dental Centre, we specialize in addressing infected teeth through precise root canal procedures. Our dedicated team focuses on relieving pain and saving your natural tooth by expertly removing infected tissue, cleansing the tooth’s interior, and sealing it effectively.
Our state-of-the-art facilities and compassionate care ensure a comfortable experience while restoring your dental health. Trust us to alleviate your discomfort and preserve your smile with our tailored root canal therapy near you.