Understanding Root Canal Therapy
The procedure involves extracting infected or inflamed root nerves from a tooth, cleaning, shaping the canal cavity, and sealing it to prevent bacterial re-entry into the nerve system. Root canal therapy is primarily performed to save a tooth’s functionality and appearance.
When Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?
Signs that may indicate the need for root canal treatment include:
- Severe tooth sensitivity or toothache
- Nerve damage causing discomfort with hot and cold foods
- Persistent biting discomfort
- Pain when touching or pressing the tooth
- Cracks extending into the root canal of a tooth
- Trauma or damage leading to nerve damage within a tooth
- Tooth discoloration
Upon your visit, our dentist will conduct a thorough examination and take X-rays to diagnose the underlying issue. Depending on the diagnosis, we’ll recommend the appropriate treatment, which may involve a root canal procedure.
Root Canal Therapy Procedure
The root canal therapy process includes cleaning, disinfecting, shaping, and filling the canals. This may span multiple visits due to complexity or, in certain cases, be completed in a single session.
Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?
Some signs that you may require root canal therapy include:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Discoloration or darkening of a tooth
- Toothache during chewing or pressure
- Recurring abscesses or pimples on the gums
- Gum swelling
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we encourage you to contact us for further evaluation and discussion.
What to Expect during Root Canal Therapy
A typical root canal treatment may span three stages, lasting between 30 to 90 minutes per session. These sessions can be spaced out to four weeks or completed in one visit, depending on your dentist’s recommendation. The process involves removing the infected nerve, fitting a temporary filler, and final sealing. Temporary fillings and antibacterial elements are placed between visits to aid tissue healing and eliminate any remaining bacteria.
Contact us to discuss your symptoms and explore how root canal therapy at Albert Street Dental can help preserve your tooth and maintain your oral health.