Root Canal Treatment Edmonton
Endodontic Treatment is an essential procedure for saving teeth that are severely decayed, infected, or broken, allowing the affected tooth to be preserved for many more years rather than extracted.
A root canal is the natural cavity within a tooth, consisting of the pulp chamber, the main canal, and smaller anatomical branches that may connect the root canals to each other or to the surface of the root. These smaller branches are usually found near the root tip (apex) but can occur along the entire root length.
During a root canal procedure, the dentist accesses the pulp chamber in the crown of the tooth to reveal the root canals. The infected nerve and pulp tissue are removed, and the canals are carefully shaped using specialized files to ensure no infection remains. Finally, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material to seal them off and protect the tooth.
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
Root canal treatment is generally not as painful as many people fear. With local anesthesia, the procedure is typically painless. You may experience some mild discomfort after the procedure, but over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient to manage it.
When is Root Canal Treatment Needed?
Root canal therapy is recommended when the nerve of a tooth has become infected or damaged, causing the tooth to deteriorate from the inside out. Common situations include:
- Dental abscess
- Dying tooth
- Severe tooth fracture
- Deep cavities
- Severe tooth sensitivity or pain
Root canal treatment can often be completed in 1 or 2 appointments. After the procedure, mild tenderness may occur, but severe pain or swelling is uncommon. If unusual symptoms appear, contact your dentist promptly. A root canal does not prevent other dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, but with proper care and regular check-ups, the treated tooth can last as long as your natural teeth.
Due to the complexity of root canal anatomy and variations between teeth, some cases may require referral to a specialized endodontist in Edmonton for optimal results.
