Root Canals
At South 40 Dental Sexsmith, our team offers root canals for patients who may be suffering from tooth pain.
What is a Root Canal?
Endodontics is the dental specialty that deals with the nerves of the teeth. Root canals is a common procedure in dentistry and the most common procedure relating to endodontics.
When a tooth becomes infected, it is usually related to the nerves in the root of the tooth, and so the infected nerves need to be removed.
If left untreated, an infection can turn into an abscess, which is a much more serious problem that includes bone loss in the jaw.
Root Canal Procedure
1. The dentist will then drill down into the tooth to create an opening into the canal.
2. The dentist will remove infected tissue and clean the canal.
3. After the infection has been removed, space is filled with a sealant called gutta percha.
It is highly recommended that a tooth that has undergone a root canal is fitted with a crown. This will improve the appearance of the tooth.
Post-Op Instructions
You can expect soreness after a root canal procedure for a few days. You should avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the procedure was performed, so you do not irritate the area. You will also need to take an antibiotic to treat any remaining infection in your tooth. If you notice an increasing amount of pain, call your dentist immediately.