What is a root canal?
The connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels are found in the pulp, a soft region at the centre of every tooth. The enamel and dentin of the tooth protect this crucial component, making it the most important part of the tooth.
A tooth’s pulp can become damaged due to infection and ultimately lead to the death of the tooth.
During a root canal procedure, we remove the pulp in a damaged tooth, clean out any residual tissues and seal or cap it with a filling or dental crown. This prevents the need for an extraction.
A root canal can relieve the pain caused by infected or inflamed tooth pulp and allow you to eat, smile, and talk normally again. Your chances of requiring more extensive or long-term tooth repair will be reduced as well.
Why would I need a root canal procedure?
The pulp of a tooth can become infected for many reasons and may need to be removed. Here are some main reasons patients come to us needing Root Canal Therapy:
- Serious decay
- Faulty crown
- A tooth with repeated dental procedures
- Injury to a tooth
- Chipped or cracked tooth
How can I prevent the need for a root canal?
We haven't met anyone who enjoys getting a root canal, despite the fact that your dentist will make every effort to ensure you don't feel any pain during the procedure or afterward. You can avoid the need for a root canal procedure by taking good care of your teeth between dental visits.
- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing twice daily, or as prescribed by your dentist. No matter how tired or busy you may be, don't forget this step.
- Visit your dentist for preventive care every six months, or as prescribed by your dentist.
- Avoid particularly crunchy or hard foods and candies, especially if you already have weak teeth or dental restorations. These can easily cause teeth to crack and leave your tooth vulnerable to bacteria, which can enter the root system and cause damage from within.
- Do not chew ice! This can fracture or crack teeth and allow bacteria to access and infect the pulp.
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks; they cause wear on your enamel and expose the teeth to sugar.
- Wear night guards or sports guards to protect your teeth from damage.
Regular dental checkups and hygiene cleanings are essential for maintaining your oral health. The dentist can also look for early signs of dental problems before they become more serious. Any necessary dental treatments can then be carried out to prevent these issues from worsening or spreading to other teeth.