Root canal treatment
Untreated tooth decay can lead to serious infection and a weakened tooth. To save it, it may be necessary to perform a root canal, also known as endodontic treatment. It's a high-precision operation that the specialists at our clinic in Outremont will perform delicately and effectively.
Why root canal treatment?
Tooth decay, an infection that causes a cavity in the tooth surface, never goes away on its own. Without proper treatment, the infection becomes invasive, and bacteria can reach the dental pulp (the center of the tooth containing blood vessels and nerves). This is known as pulpitis, a deep-seated disease that weakens the tooth and causes sustained pain. As it progresses, it can even lead to the formation of an abscess near a tooth root. Bacterial overgrowth in the tooth can also result from a crack, breakage caused by dental trauma or a damaged filling.
What is root canal treatment?
Root canal therapy is a deep cleaning that can stop severe infection and prevent tooth extraction. It's therefore the procedure of choice to avoid tooth misalignment in the long term, or tooth replacement with a fixed bridge or dental implant.
How does the procedure work?
Your dentist will begin by assessing the condition of your tooth and determining the number of appointments required for the operation (depending on the number of roots to be treated, in particular). He or she will also explain the entire procedure. Here's a brief outline:
- After local anesthetic, the dentist prepares for the operation by placing a dam around the tooth in question, to prevent bacterial infiltration;
- Next, he will make a small hole in the tooth to remove the infected pulp;
- He will then meticulously clean the canals to remove any residue. He will then fill each canal with a medical rubber;
- Finally, he will close the tooth to protect it from bacteria. Depending on the damage to your tooth, he or she will suggest a filling or a crown.
Restoration of your tooth will depend on the strength of the remaining part. Your dentist will assess whether you need a filling, an inlay or a crown, all of which will ensure that your tooth remains functional. Contrary to popular belief, root canal treatment can be performed quickly, in one or two appointments, depending on the level of infection, and the anesthetic used means the procedure is painless!
The professionals at Dentistes Outremont are used to root canal treatments! They'll be with you every step of the way, from answering any questions you may have, to caring for your tooth, to teaching you about preventive measures you can take to maintain optimal oral health!
