Your Edmonton Downtown Invisalign® Provider
Root Canal Procedures
Each of your teeth contains blood vessels and connective tissue that help keep the tooth alive and in place. This is the most vital element of a tooth, and the tooth’s enamel and dentin protect it.
When the outer layer of the tooth becomes broken it might lead to an infection in the pulp of the tooth. which can ultimately cause 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. By performing this procedure we may be able to help prevent the need for a tooth extraction.
A root canal can alleviate the pain associated with the infected or inflamed tooth pulp and allow you to continue to eat, smile and talk properly. Your chances of needing more significant or long-term tooth repair will also be reduced.
What are some of the situations requiring a root canal?
There are a number of causes of tooth infections that will need the attention of a dentist. 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
What are some ways to help avoid the need for a root canal?
While your dentist will take steps to try and make you comfortable, no one actually enjoys a root canal procedure. If you take proper care of your teeth at home between dental appointments, you can prevent the need for a root canal procedure.
- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing twice daily, or as prescribed by your dentist. Don't forget this step, no matter how tired or busy you may be.
- Visit your dentist for preventive care every six months, or as your dentist prescribes.
- Avoid 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.
Seeing your dentist for regular checkups and hygiene cleanings is critical to maintaining your oral health. The dentist can also check for early indications of dental issues before they develop into larger issues. Any dental treatments can then be performed to prevent these problems from becoming worse or spreading to other teeth.