Root Canals

Root canals save teeth for Calgary patients

Contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy is not painful. From the patient’s perspective, treatment is about like getting a filling; the procedure just takes a little longer. It is when decay or trauma allows oral bacteria to reach the sensitive nerve at the center of the tooth that you feel discomfort. You may wake up with a swollen face and acute pain, or have a toothache that comes and goes over the span of many months. Regardless, root canals at Calgary Dental Centers get patients out of discomfort quickly, and allow them to keep their natural teeth, rather than having extractions.

Understanding root canal therapy

The visible part of your tooth is protected by a thin but very hard layer of enamel. The structure underneath is dentin, which gives the tooth strength. Roots reach into the jawbone to hold the tooth in place. Nerves extend into roots to allow the tooth to sense temperature and bite pressure. At the core of the tooth is a chamber filled with blood vessels that keep nerves vital. When a tooth is damaged, bacteria are able to infiltrate the pulp chamber. The resulting infection causes pressure and pain.

Depending on the severity of your case, our dentist may first prescribe oral antibiotics and analgesics. You are thoroughly numbed, and the tooth is opened, which immediately alleviates painful pressure. Areas of decay or damage are removed. The dentist uses special instruments to get rid of pulp and nerves, and to eliminate all traces of infection. The tooth is sealed and a temporary restoration is placed.

Most patients feel better immediately, and are able to eat normally the next day. We recommend that the interim restoration be replaced with a porcelain crown, at your earliest convenience. The crown looks natural and protects the tooth from further damage.

Benefits of root canal therapy

Root canal treatment to save a natural tooth has many advantages:

• Chewing efficiency – A missing tooth can keep you from eating foods you love, or result in digestive problems from poorly-chewed food.
• Normal bite force and sensation – A tooth with a root canal does not feel or function differently.
• Attractive appearance – While Calgary Dental Centers offers a number of tooth replacement options, nothing looks more natural than your own tooth.
• Protects other teeth – A gap in your smile allows other teeth to shift out of position. That can cause excessive wear, strain your jaw joint, or result in tooth decay and gum disease. Root canal therapy can help you avoid the discomfort and expense of more dental work in the future.

The success rate for root canal treatment is quite favorable. With good oral hygiene, the treated tooth may very well last a lifetime. Call Calgary Dental Centers today at (403) 768-1339 to become a patient.