What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a hollow channel connecting the tooth root to the upper tooth chamber. A root canal procedure refers to the repairing a tooth that has its pulp infected. The pulp is located inside the hard layers of your tooth in the root canal system. If this pulp gets infected it has to be repaired or removed. A root canal repairs the tooth so that it does not have to be removed from the mouth. It’s always a good idea to repair and save a tooth where possible.
How is a Root Canal Performed?
Step 1. Local Anesthetic (Freezing)
Local freezing is used because the root canal procedure involves the deep root and pulp. We want to make sure you do not feel any discomfort.
Step 2. Preparing the Work Area.
Next a rubber dam is placed around the tooth to protect the area from bacteria in your saliva.
Step 3. Preparing the Tooth.
The next step is to make an opening in the tooth and remove all the damaged pulp from the root canals.
Step 4. Restoring the Tooth.
The tooth now receives a filling and sometime a dental cap or crown to bring the tooth appearance and function back to normal.
Symptoms of a Root Canal.
When the nerve or pulp of your tooth becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause pain, swelling, and throbbing. Some of the specific indications are:
- Sharp, acute or intense pain,
- Pain when biting,
- Sensitivity to hot or cold,
- Tooth feels higher when biting,
- Tenderness and swelling of soft tissue around the tooth,
- Bad taste in the mouth.
If you feel you may be a candidate for root canal procedure or have any questions please contact our Grimsby Dental Office to make an appointment by clicking the button below.
