Do you have pain in specific teeth when you drink hot or cold? You may have a cavity that has spread to the nerve of your tooth and is infected.
A root canal is often needed when an untreated cavity spreads to the tooth’s dental pulp, causing an infection. The dental pulp has nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. If left untreated, the infected pulp can lead to an abscess, a more severe condition that can cause bone loss in the jaw.
Despite what you may have heard, root canals are meant to relieve pain, not cause it.
Root Canal Facts:
During a root canal dental procedure, the dentist numbs the area with a local anaesthetic. The root canal system contains the dental pulp and extends from the tooth's crown to the root's end. Then, they make a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp. Using special tools, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and fills it with a special material to keep it healthy.
The dentist will then fill the opening with a temporary filling. You will return later to receive a permanent crown to restore your tooth to its original shape and function.
A root canal is like getting a filling. The anaesthetic will numb the area so you won’t feel pain during the procedure, but you may hear some unusual sounds from the dental tools.
After the procedure, you may feel sore. Your dentist can prescribe medication if needed. Root canals are successful and will save your natural tooth for years.
You may initially feel sensitivity when biting or touching your affected tooth. This is normal and will subside as the tooth heals. The dentist may temporarily cap your affected tooth, which may feel different at first. If you have persistent discomfort, contact your dentist for a follow-up appointment.
After your root canal, which treated your infected tooth, follow these steps to ensure proper healing:
The cost of a root canal varies:
At Cloverdale Dental Centre, we offer financing options to help make it more affordable. Dental benefits may help cover some of the costs. Please contact our friendly team and we would be happy to explain all costs associated with root canal treatment.
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