Before recommending root canal therapy we collect a thorough history of any symptoms and perform an examination including dental x-rays. This aids in the accurate diagnosis of any tooth that may be suspected of needing root canal therapy.
Our root canals are fast and comfortable thanks to the use of rotary instruments and local anesthetic. A rotary instrument is a handpiece which allows us to clean and shape the canals faster than using traditional hand files. We have a lot of experience in root canal therapy and will give you fully professional work. If properly performed, and under normal circumstances, a root canal-treated tooth can last you a lifetime.
What is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy is a procedure that is used to save a tooth that is badly damaged or infected. The pulp, or living part of the tooth, is made up of nerves and blood vessels. It is contained in the pulp chamber, a space inside center of the tooth which holds the pulp and extends into roots. It becomes infected or dies for a number of reasons:
- Decay – bacteria causing tooth decay infect the pulp.
- Trauma – a traumatic injury can cause an inflammation of the pulp.
- Deep fillings – fillings that have to be placed close to the pulp chamber because of tooth decay or tooth fracture.
- Unexplained – sometimes the pulp can become inflamed and can die for no apparent reason.
During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed from the "canal" inside of the root, which is then cleaned and sealed.
What are the symptoms that indicate the need for root canal therapy?
- Moderate to severe lingering toothache, which may be throbbing, when having hot or cold foods.
- Toothache pain so intense it wakes you up at night.
- Pain when chewing or biting.
- Swelling on your gum which when pressed may release blood or pus.
- Pain that starts in one tooth and spreads to other regions of the jaw or head. For example: an infected lower molar (back tooth) may cause you to feel pain in the ear!
Sometimes, however, there may be no symptoms.
