The Root Canal Procedure – Everything You Need to Know
A root canal is a complex process that entails removing the dental pulp and filling it with an inert material called gutta-percha. After a root canal treatment, the tooth is covered with a crown. This strengthens the tooth to help prevent it from cracking after treatment.
What May Necessitate a Root Canal Procedure?
Scientifically, the tooth comprises enamel, dentin, pulp, and cementum. The pulp includes blood vessels and nerves. The nerves are the reason you may feel pain when you hit any of your teeth with a spoon.
In most cases, a crack or a cavity is the primary reason why a root canal procedure is required. As time passes by, the hole deepens and escalates the problems. Bacteria enter the pulp via cracks or deep cavities. Once inside the delicate tissues of the pulp, an infection is born.
Such an infection inside the tooth calls for immediate medical attention. Many people do not seek medical intervention quickly for some reason. They resort to treating the pain caused by the infection with pain killer pills. This situation can then worsen, and pus may start to accumulate at the base of the root in the jawbone.
At this point, you could lose the tooth if not attended to urgently. The pus at the base of the tooth can cause swelling and excruciating pain. Toothaches can be one of the most painful things that can happen to you. It’s always advisable to seek consultation from a professional cosmetic dentist near you before getting to the point of no return where you have to part ways with one of your teeth.
The Costs of a Root Canal in Mississauga
To receive root canal treatment, you can book an appointment in Mississauga, ON, with Dr. Jeff Levman. Booking an appointment is easy with our online booking form.
A root canal’s expected costs will be determined during your consultation with our dentist. It varies for various patients depending on factors such as which tooth, stage of infection, etc. The good thing is that all types of dental insurance are accepted. Also, we accept major credit cards.
Benefits of a Root Canal Treatment
- The painful tooth gets treated.
- You don’t lose the tooth.
- It’s a long-term solution.
How Can a Root Canal Be Diagnosed?
Dentists conduct a lot of due diligence before performing a root canal. A dentist needs to establish the key cause and effect.
The Basic Procedure of a Root Canal
Typically, after a dentist has identified that a root canal is inevitable, what follows is a 3-step process that takes three visits.
- The dentist gets rid of the infected pulp.
- The pulp cavity and root are cleaned and sealed.
- A crown is often placed for teeth with endodontic treatment.
Precautions Preceding a Root Canal Procedure
Many teeth-associated problems can cause toothache. Such issues include tooth decay and inflammation. A toothache does, therefore, not always require a root canal. It’s advisable to consult with a dentist to determine the best course of treatment.
A root canal can often be avoided if people pay attention to their dental health. Dental health includes day-to-day mouth hygiene and regular checkups with the dentist. Additionally, you should strive to have a professional teeth cleaning every six months. This allows your dentist to detect early warning signs.
The dental office of Dr. Jeff Levman in Mississauga, ON, has got you covered in preventive and restorative dental care.
Alternatives to a Root Canal
Depending on the situation, you have to choose between a root canal and a surgical option, as shown below.
- Tooth extraction – happens as a last result.
- Tooth replacement – you can opt for a removable denture, a bridge, or an implant.
Aftercare Tips
After receiving a root canal, there are some safety precautions to follow to ensure faster recovery and reduce secondary infection risks.
- Avoid eating too soon.
- Take the doctors prescriptions
- Gargle plenty of warm-salty water in the mouth
After you have fully recovered, your restored tooth should last for years with proper care.