One of the last things patients want to hear when they visit their dentist is that they need root canal therapy in Red Deer. Although most patients are unsure of what this procedure actually entails, they are aware of its negative reputation. They think of root canal therapy as something painful, unpleasant and frightening. But the truth is, root canal treatment is very misunderstood and has a reputation that it truly does not deserve. In this article, we will set the record straight and debunk the truth about root canal therapy near you.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy or endodontic treatment is intended to clear away infections that transpire on the inside of your tooth. Clearing away the infection preserves your tooth and prevents the need for extraction. Tooth removal is always a last resort for patients, which means if you can save your tooth through root canal treatment, you are lucky as it is the last defence!
When Do Patients Need Root Canal Therapy?
Your dentist in Red Deer will recommend root canal therapy if the pulp of your tooth has an infection. Your teeth are not a solid structure, which means they are comprised of layers. The root canal is an area inside your tooth, it holds the nerves of the tooth and soft tissues (the pulp). If your tooth’s pulp becomes infected, it can inflame which causes intense pain. When the infection advances, the pulp will begin to break down and the tooth will weaken. When a tooth infection is left untreated, your tooth can fall out and the bone surrounding it can deteriorate. When you can eliminate the infection before it is too late, it will save your tooth and the bone.
What Steps Are Included in The Root Canal Procedure?
• Your dentist in Red Deer will drill a small hole into the enamel of your tooth so that they can access its pulp.
• Using fine tools, they will remove the pulp and nerve tissue. After the pulp is removed, your dentist reshapes and disinfects the root canal.
A gum-like substance is inserted into your tooth, to fill the missing tooth pulp. The purpose of this is to prevent infection in the future and restore the appearance and shape of your tooth.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The length of your appointment is dependent on the tooth and the extent of the disease. The procedure will be performed over one or two visits. You may require additional appointments to plan for a restoration (dental crown) which will be placed over the top of the tooth.
How Painful is Root Canal Therapy in Red Deer?
Before the procedure, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to prevent any pain. Root canal therapy is not more painful than any other treatment performed under an anesthetic. Some patients may feel slight pressure or discomfort during the procedure, but they will not feel any pain. Your dentist in Red Deer will likely recommend over-the-counter pain medication to manage any post-operative pain. You should expect some post-tenderness for a few days, but generally, there is no pain. The reality is that root canal therapy near you is performed to alleviate pain caused by endodontic infections. This procedure resolves the issue and eliminates the source of infection. It addresses the problem; it does not create other oral health concerns.
What Are the Alternatives to Root Canal Treatment?
There is only one alternative to root canal therapy, extraction. When you remove and replace a tooth not only is it more time-consuming and expensive, but it can lead to other complications. For example, your adjacent teeth may shift out of place.
If you are interested in learning more about root canal therapy, contact your dental clinic in Red Deer. You and your dentist can discuss the procedure in more detail and they can create an individualized treatment plan.
