Endodontic (Root Canal) Treatment
What Is a Root Canal?
Inside each tooth is a space containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. This area is known as the pulp.
Deep decay, cracks, trauma, or repeated dental procedures can damage or infect the pulp. When this happens, the tissue may become inflamed or infected.
During a root canal, the damaged pulp is carefully removed. The inside of the tooth is then cleaned, disinfected, filled, and sealed to help prevent further infection.
The tooth can then be restored so that you can continue using it normally.
Why Might You Need a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment may be recommended when the pulp inside a tooth has become irreversibly inflamed or infected.
Common causes include:
- Deep tooth decay
- A cracked or fractured tooth
- Dental trauma
- Repeated procedures on the same tooth
- Significant wear or damage
- Bacteria entering the inner portion of the tooth
Without treatment, an infection can spread beyond the tooth and affect the surrounding tissues.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Treatment
A damaged or infected tooth doesn’t always cause obvious symptoms. However, possible signs include:
- Persistent toothache
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Prolonged sensitivity after eating or drinking
- Swelling around the tooth
- Tender or swollen gums
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- A recurring pimple or bump on the gums
- Pain that comes and goes
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, an examination can help determine the cause.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
01
Examination & Diagnosis
Your dentist examines the tooth and surrounding tissues. Dental X-rays may be used to evaluate the roots and supporting bone and to determine the extent of the problem.
02
Numbing the Tooth
A local anesthetic is used to numb the tooth and surrounding area before treatment begins.
Your comfort is an important part of the procedure.
03
Removing the Damaged Pulp
A small opening is made in the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
The damaged or infected pulp tissue is carefully removed.
04
Cleaning & Disinfecting
The root canals are cleaned and shaped to remove remaining tissue, bacteria, and debris.
The canals are then prepared for sealing.
05
Filling & Sealing
The cleaned canals are filled with a specialized material and sealed to help prevent bacteria from entering the space again.
05
Restoring the Tooth
After the root canal has been completed, the tooth needs to be restored to protect it from further damage.
Depending on the condition of the tooth, this may involve a filling or a dental crown.
Is Root Canal Treatment Painful?
The purpose of root canal treatment is to remove the source of infection and inflammation that may be causing pain.
The tooth is numbed with local anesthetic during the procedure, so you should not feel the treatment itself in the way you might expect from an untreated toothache.
Some tenderness or sensitivity can occur after treatment as the surrounding tissues recover. Your dental team will provide instructions for caring for the tooth during this period.
Why Save the Natural Tooth?
When possible, preserving your natural tooth has important benefits.
Keeping the natural tooth can help:
- Maintain your normal bite
- Preserve surrounding teeth
- Maintain chewing function
- Avoid the need for extraction
- Reduce movement of neighboring teeth
A root canal can allow a tooth that might otherwise require extraction to remain part of your natural smile.
Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction
When a tooth has extensive damage or infection, there may be situations where extraction is necessary. However, when the tooth can be predictably restored, root canal treatment may provide an opportunity to preserve it.
Your dentist will evaluate the condition of the tooth and discuss whether root canal treatment or another option is appropriate.
If extraction is necessary, we can also discuss replacement options such as a bridge or dental implant.
After Root Canal Treatment
Following treatment, it’s important to take care of the tooth while it is being restored.
You may be advised to:
- Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until it has been restored
- Follow your dentist’s post-treatment instructions
- Maintain regular brushing and flossing
- Return for the recommended final restoration
- Attend regular dental examinations
A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may require a crown or other restoration to provide additional protection, particularly when a significant amount of tooth structure has been lost.
When Should You Contact Us?
If you have persistent tooth pain, swelling, sensitivity, or discomfort when chewing, don’t wait for the problem to get worse.
Early evaluation can help determine whether the tooth has an infection or another condition requiring treatment.
At Scarborough Village Dental Care, we’ll examine your tooth, explain what’s causing your symptoms, and discuss the most appropriate treatment options.
Meet Our Dental Team
Our Locations
Scarborough Village Dental Care
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Phone
Working Hours
- Monday: 9 AM - 7 PM Tuesday: 9 AM - 7 PMWednesday: 9 AM - 7 PMThursday: 9 AM - 6 PM Friday: 9 AM - 3 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM
Cliffcrest Family Dental
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Phone
Working Hours
- Monday: 8 AM - 8 PM Tuesday: 8 AM - 8 PMWednesday: 8 AM - 8 PMThursday: 8 AM - 8 PM Friday: 8 AM - 4 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM