Have you ever suffered from an unbearable toothache that wouldn’t stop? In many instances, this transpires when your tooth’s interior is infected or damaged. When a tooth becomes infected or damaged, root canal therapy in Edmonton could come to the rescue. This therapy saves your natural tooth instead of removing it.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy removes infected or damaged tissue (called pulp) within your tooth. After the pulp is cleaned and sealed, a crown is placed on the tooth to protect it from further damage.
Many people think that getting a root canal is very painful, but in fact, it is the opposite. In truth, root canals help relieve pain. They can also help avoid the pain which could be felt if the tooth has to be extracted. With the help of modern dental technology, most patients say it is like getting a filling.
How Does Root Canal Therapy Work?
The dentist near you will initially visually inspect your tooth and take an X-ray to confirm whether there is an infection. After that, the treatment is usually only done in these steps:
- Area numbing: The local anaesthetic makes the procedure comfortable for you.
- Infection cleaning: The dentist removes the infected pulp.
- Space filling: A safe, rubber-like material is used to fill the emptied canal.
- Tooth restoration: To make the tooth strong and safe, a crown or a filling is used.
This method keeps your natural tooth and makes the tooth usable for normal chewing and biting again.
What are the Benefits of Root Canal Therapy?
Besides pain relief, the list of root canal therapy benefits is quite long.
- Saves your natural tooth: Maintains your original tooth structure.
- Stops the infection: Bacteria need not spread to other teeth or gums, as the infection is blocked.
- Restores function: The patient can eat and speak without any discomfort.
- Enhances appearance: Your tooth will look natural due to a crown.
After root canal treatment, a tooth can be kept for a lifetime with proper maintenance.
Why is it Important to Save Your Natural Tooth?
Losing a tooth can affect your bite, jawbone and even your overall oral health. It can be an expensive and lengthy process to put in an artificial tooth. That’s why many dentists say to do what you can to save a natural tooth with a root canal instead of removing it.
- Saving your natural tooth helps.
- Maintain natural alignment of surrounding teeth.
- Preserve jawbone strength.
- Prevent future dental complications.
An artificial tooth will never function as well as a natural, healthy tooth.
When Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?
If you have any of these symptoms, a root canal may be necessary:
- Extreme or lasting toothache
- Reaction with very hot or very cold things (foods or drinks)
- Swelling or tenderness of the gums
- Teeth that have become darker or discoloured
Ignoring the symptoms of gum disease can cause serious problems for your teeth. It will be much easier to get treatment from the dentist if you go early.
Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction: Which Is Better?
| Aspect | Root Canal Therapy | Tooth Extraction |
| Tooth Preservation | Keeps your natural tooth | Removes the tooth completely |
| Healing Time | Short recovery | Longer healing and potential bone loss |
| Cost | More affordable long-term | May require costly replacements |
| Functionality | Maintains chewing and speech | Can affect bite alignment |
A root canal is the right choice to keep a smile that is healthy, functional, and still gives you confidence without the need for replacements.
Ready to Get Your Natural Smile Back?
Is a toothache putting a stop to your activities? If this is the case, don’t delay; book an appointment at Millwoods Dental Choice. Our expert team will give you a memento of your own teeth, a smile that lasts through gentle and prolonged treatment.
FAQs
Does root canal treatment hurt?
No, local anesthetic is more or less painless and also takes away your present toothache.
How long does a root canal take?
The number of visits depends on the condition of the teeth. Most procedures can be effected in one or two visits.
Can a tooth still decay after a root canal?
Yes, but regular brushing, flossing, and checkups can prevent it.
How long does a root canal last?
With proper care, it can last a lifetime.