Root Canals
Root Canals sound scary, but they are not. They are a common procedure used to save a tooth when the root has become infected. Read more below:
A root canal is a procedure that dentists use to repair and save a tooth in cases that the nerve of the tooth has become infected or has died.
A root canal can save your tooth, preventing the need for an extraction and other more extensive procedures like dental implants.
Root canals involve the removal of an infected nerve in the tooth and filling it with a special material to prevent further damage or infection. Many people are scared of root canals due to myths about them being painful, but the actual process of the root canal should be painless.
We are happy to walk you through the entire process as we go!
Root canals are required when the innermost layer of a tooth, known as the dental pulp, becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen due to various reasons, including severe tooth decay, cracks or fractures in the tooth, trauma or even repeated dental procedures on the same tooth. When the dental pulp is compromised, it can lead to excruciating pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swelling, and even abscess formation; however, in some occasions, there may be no pain associated with the tooth.
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The Root Canal Procedure
The root canal procedure is essential to save the affected tooth from extraction and further complications. During the treatment, a dentist or endodontist carefully removes the infected pulp, disinfects the canal space, and then fills and seals it with a special material. This process alleviates the pain and prevents the infection from spreading to the surrounding tissues. Root canals are generally performed under local anesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort for the patient during the procedure.
Here’s what else you need to know about why you may need a root canal:
Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
Root canals become necessary when bacteria cause infection deep inside the tooth, causing damage to the nerve tissue and pulp. When this damage occurs, bacteria can enter and cause an infection that cannot be resolved with antibiotics alone. Root canals can also be necessary because of deep cavities, cracks, fractured/broken teeth, or because of trauma resulting from an accident or injury.
How Long Do Root Canals Take?
The amount of time needed for a root canal depends on several factors including how extensive the work needs to be and how many roots are present in each individual tooth. Generally speaking, most appointments take between 45 minutes and two hours from start to finish; however, there may be times where additional procedures like crown placement or further treatments may extend this length of time. A temporary crown may be put on your tooth at the end of the procedure, and you will have to come back to the office for a permanent crown.
Root Canals Vancouver - Referrals to Lee Family Dentistry
Root canals don’t have to be scary! With modern technology, they are much less painful and more predictable than they used to be! We use 3D x-ray technology to view the tooth and accurately diagnose and treat the tooth. Root canals can be a necessary way to treat severe infections in teeth that would otherwise lead to more serious health issues down the line.
The team at Lee Family Dentistry have over 10 years of experience performing root canals - and we do implants and other cosmetic dentistry too. We have a caring team and a gentle, professional approach. We are happy to discuss pain management and payment options with you. Have a look at our hours on the Contact page and call our reception team to discuss.
Contact Us - Dentists Who Do Root Canals Vancouver
Please contact our office if you think you may need a root canal. We also offer general dentistry services in Kitsilano and can advise on other oral health and dental needs.