Yes, root canal treatment is most commonly required when the soft interior tissue of your tooth, also known as the pulp, becomes damaged, infected, or inflamed. The pulp carries nerves and blood vessels that give the tooth life, but when it’s damaged because of deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it causes throbbing pain, sensitivity, swelling, or even a dental abscess. If left untreated, the infection may advance, which is able to cause loss of bone or tooth.
What Are the Signs You Might Need a Root Canal?
Some warning signs may indicate that the pulp of your tooth is damaged or infected. Knowing these can help you act early.
Root canal therapy symptoms and signs are:
- Ongoing tooth pain or aching that is aggravated by chewing
- Sensitivity to heat or cold
- Swollen or painful gums near a particular tooth
- Discoloured or dark-colored tooth
- Pimple-like growths on the gums
If you experience any of these symptoms, then go visit a Ottawa dentist on Bank Street immediately for examination and treatment.
When Is Root Canal Therapy Recommended?
Root canal is usually the suggestion when decay or injury has extended to the pulp of the tooth. This innermost layer has nerves and blood vessels, and once infected, pain and complications arise very quickly. Root canal therapy in Ottawa allows for the removal of infection, saves your tooth, and keeps further complications at bay. Without treatment, the only choice is extraction, which impacts your chewing, smile, and oral health.
What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure?
Despite its reputation, modern root canal treatment is no more painful than getting a regular filling. Most patients experience relief, rather than pain, after the procedure.
Here’s what you experience in a root canal treatment:
- Examination and X-ray: Your dentist examines the extent of infection.
- Local Anesthesia: numbs the area so you will not feel anything.
- Access Opening: A small hole is made in the tooth to reach the pulp.
- Cleaning and Shaping: Infected pulp is removed; canals are cleaned.
- Filling the Canals: Canals are sealed with a rubber-like material.
- Restoration: A filling or crown is placed to protect the tooth.
Your treatment will usually take one or two visits, depending on the condition of the tooth.
What Are the Steps in a Root Canal Treatment?
Here’s how a typical step-by-step root canal treatment procedure is done:
1. X-ray and Examination
Your dentist will begin by taking an X-ray to check the shape of the root canals and detect any infection in the surrounding bone.
2. Local Anesthesia
A numbing agent is applied to the area to ensure you feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.
3. Accessing the Tooth
A small opening is made in the top of the tooth to reach the infected pulp inside.
4. Removing the Infected Pulp
The damaged or infected pulp is carefully removed from the root canals using special dental tools.
5. Cleaning and Shaping the Canals
The inside of the tooth roots is gently cleaned, rinsed to remove bacteria, and carefully shaped so it’s ready to be filled and sealed.
6. Sealing the Canals
Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material (usually gutta-percha) to prevent reinfection.
7. Final Restoration
The access hole is sealed with a filling. In many cases, a crown is placed afterward to protect the tooth and restore its full function.
Each step is designed to eliminate infection, relieve pain, and preserve your natural tooth for the long term.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to See a Dentist Near You?
Waiting too long for treatment can let the infection grow, which might harm nearby teeth or even your jaw. Visiting a trusted dentist near you in Ottawa. Being on time can save your tooth and prevent bigger problems.
If not treated, the infection can cause:
- Pain that won’t go away
- Swelling or pus around the tooth
- Bone damage near the root
- Health issues in rare cases
How Do You Protect a Tooth After Root Canal Treatment?
Once the root canal is complete, it’s important to maintain good dental hygiene to keep the tooth healthy for years. Preserving teeth after root canal care involves:
- Cleaning your teeth every day with a toothbrush and string floss
- Getting a crown placed if advised
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods until healing is complete
- Going back to the dentist for checkups after your treatment
With proper care, a treated tooth can last just as long as your natural ones.
How Should You Care for Your Tooth After a Root Canal?
Your journey doesn’t end after the procedure. Proper root canal follow-up care ensures full recovery and long-term success. This includes:
- Attending your follow-up dental visit to check the healing
- Report any pain, swelling, or bite discomfort
- Completing the restoration (like a crown) if not already done
- Keeping up with regular dental checkups every 6 months
Your Smile Deserves Expert Attention – Book Your Visit Now!
If you’re dealing with persistent tooth pain or signs of infection, don’t wait. At Dr. Sirwan Dental, our team provides gentle and effective root canal therapy to help save your natural teeth and restore comfort. Whether you’re searching for a dentist or simply want expert care, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Book an appointment today to protect your smile and prevent further damage; your future self will thank you.
FAQs
Does root canal therapy hurt?
Modern root canal treatments are almost painless. The discomfort you feel before the procedure is usually worse than the actual treatment.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
In many cases, yes. A crown helps protect the tooth and restore full function, especially for molars or teeth used for chewing.
How long can a tooth last after a root canal?
If you take good care of it, a tooth that had a root canal can stay healthy for the rest of your life. Keeping up with cleanings and checkups is key.