Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that involves removing the pulp from the inside of a tooth. This procedure is necessary when the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, which can happen due to tooth decay, cracked or chipped teeth, or other types of damage.
This treatment is often necessary to alleviate pain and save an unhealthy tooth from extraction. If this goes untreated, an injured tooth can cause severe pain and abscesses to develop; the infection can spread to other parts of the body as well. Early diagnosis done by a dentist near you can help prevent such severe dental problems from happening in the future.
Symptoms That Indicate You Might Need Root Canal Therapy
If you find yourself dealing with any of the symptoms touched on below, please visit a dentist or an endodontist soon. They’ll work quickly to make sure your smile is back to new and that you’re free of any pain or discomfort.
Severe toothache
This is one of the most common symptoms of root canal therapy. The pain may be sharp or dull and can be constant or intermittent. It may worsen when you bite or chew.
Sensitivity to hot and cold
If you experience sudden, sharp pain when you consume hot or cold food or drinks, it may indicate that the nerve inside the tooth is damaged or infected.
Swelling and tenderness
You may notice swelling and tenderness in the gums around the affected tooth. This may be accompanied by a small bump on the gum that looks like a pimple.
Discoloration
If the tooth turns dark or gray, it may indicate that the nerve inside the tooth is damaged or dead.
Gum recession
If the gum around the affected tooth starts to recede, it may expose the root and cause sensitivity and pain.
Root Canal Procedure
A root canal near you involves scraping out the unhealthy pulp, which is located in the center of the tooth. The canal then needs to be cleaned, disinfected, and sealed. Here are the steps involved in a typical root canal procedure:
- Physically examining the patient’s oral health.
- Administering anesthesia.
- Creating a small hole to access the pulp chamber using a dental drill.
- Removal of infected and damaged pulp.
- Cleaning inside the tooth to remove any remaining bacteria.
- Filling in the root canal with a material called gutta-percha.
- Place a restoration to restore the teeth and their function.
A Root canal in Kelowna is usually completed in one or two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case. After the procedure, it is important to take good care of the tooth and maintain good oral hygiene to prevent further damage or infection. Consult with our expert dentist in Kelowna if you want to learn more about the treatment process in detail.
FAQ
1 . How much does a root canal cost?
Your location is one of many variables that affect the price of a root canal treatment. The cost of a root canal can vary from $500 to $6,000. The cost of a root canal procedure may also depend on different factors.
2 . Is pain after a root canal normal?
After a root canal, some minor discomfort is normal. You can take over-the-counter painkillers while the soreness passes.
3 . How long does a root canal take?
The number of visits needed for root canal therapy will depend on the severity of the infection in your tooth. A root canal typically takes two appointments and 30 to 60 minutes to conclude. A larger tooth with numerous roots may require up to an hour and a half of treatment time.
Visit Dr. Sean M. Swift Dentistry if you are interested in getting the function of your mouth restored with quality dental care treatment. We have a team of experts who can offer you a wide range of services to ensure you get the smile you desire.
Don’t wait to book your appointment today!