Have you been told that you need a root canal? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. A root canal is a routine dental procedure, and the team at Burlington dental clinic has a great deal of experience saving the natural teeth of patients using this treatment option.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental treatment used to preserve a patient’s natural tooth when the tooth pulp has become inflamed or infected. When an infection occurs in a tooth, its pulp and nerve begin to decay. Removing the interior of the tooth that is inflamed is usually the only way to prevent a tooth extraction, meaning the loss of the natural tooth.
Since an infection in your tooth will generally get worse over time and cause further decay of the pulp and nerve under the tooth, it’s important to be mindful and aware of any changes in the way your mouth looks and feels, and to reach out to your dentist if you feel any pain or discomfort.
Once it’s been determined that you have an infection or inflammation in your tooth and you do need a root canal, your general dentist in Burlington will arrange the procedure, which involves cleaning away the affected tissue (the pulp) from inside the tooth’s roots and crown. After the pulp has been removed from the tooth canal, the area is disinfected, and reshaped and filled with a material called gutta percha that is made of a material fairly similar to rubber.
Root canals are also often referred to as endodontic therapy.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Only a dental professional can tell you for certain that you need a root canal, but here are some signs and symptoms that you may have an infection in your tooth. If you are experiencing any of these problems, reach out to your dentist in Burlington right away.
Signs you may need a root canal:
• Sensitivity to hot and cold
• Pain in your teeth or gums
• Gums that are increasingly swollen or tender
• Sores developing in the mouth or on the gums
• Discoloured, cracked, or damaged teeth.
If you are having pain or discomfort in your mouth or are experiencing other dental problems, reach out to the team at Teeth R Us Dental Centre today. We’ll set up a time to assess your condition and work together to find a treatment plan that suits your unique needs.