Root canal is probably one of the most dreaded procedures of dental patients. However, it really is not that bad… root canal definitely relieves you from a nagging toothache and infection or abscess. Teeth are meant to last for a lifetime, however, inevitable injuries or deep cavity damages the teeth. Thus, the insides of the teeth become infected. Root canal is a procedure that saves teeth by removal of bacteria and decay.
Signs and Symptoms
Damaged and infected teeth that are not treated with root canal therapy will eventually abscess and would need extraction (removal). Some patients think that the extraction of damaged tooth is the best solution; however, tooth extraction might actually cause more significant problems for the adjacent teeth. Some of the signs and symptoms for requiring root canal therapy are:
- Persistent and severe toothache
- Sensitivity to cold and hot
- Tooth discoloration
- Abscess on gums
- Swelling or tenderness
- Irritation in the surrounding gum tissue
- Visible signs of infection on X-rays
- Foul taste or odour in the mouth
In the worst cases of infection, bacteria tend to reproduce to an extent that they can cause problems in other areas of the body. For example, bacteria can enter the blood stream through the bleeding and/or inflamed gums around the affected tooth – this can cause cardiovascular problems. In other cases, bacteria might cause a suppressed immune system, complications with pregnancy, diabetes, as well as digestive problems to name a few.
Why is it necessary?
Each tooth is made up of three primary components:
- hard outside layer (enamel)
- soft middle layer (dentin)
- inner layer of soft tissue (dental pulp)
The dental pulp is made up of blood vessels, nerve fibres, and lymph tissue. Root canal therapy might be required if decay has reached the pulp and the abscess or infection has reached either inside the tooth or at the tip of the root. If left untreated, the damaged pulp causes significant infection that eventually damages the bone around the tooth – this causes the death of the tooth. If you have damaged pulp, the infection can cause serious health problems such as cardiovascular issues – all without root canal therapy.
Post-Root Canal Procedure
After the procedure, expect one or two days of soreness. Your dentist will definitely prescribe pain relievers in those first few days, and may give you an antibiotic(s) to fight off any residual bacteria. Once you’re relieved of the pain, you might be tempted to skip out on your scheduled follow-up visits. Make sure you don’t do that. Regular trips to the dentist are essential in ensuring that you have good oral health. This also prevents you from having to undergo another root canal procedure. Make sure you do your part.
Looking for professional help? Learn more about our root canal therapy at Pickering Square Dental or call (905) 420-1777 to book an appointment.
Helpful Resources
For more information, visit the CDA Dental Emergency Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a dental emergency?
Severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, a cracked or broken tooth, uncontrolled bleeding, dental abscess, and lost fillings or crowns all qualify as dental emergencies. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 for same-day emergency care.
Can I go to the emergency room for a dental emergency?
While the ER can manage pain and infection, they typically cannot perform dental procedures. A dental office like Pickering Square Dental is better equipped to treat the underlying cause. We reserve same-day appointments for emergencies.
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
Pick up the tooth by the crown, gently rinse it, and try to place it back in the socket. If that is not possible, keep it in milk or saliva. Get to our Pickering office within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.
About Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS
Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS, is the owner and lead dentist at Pickering Square Dental. With decades of experience in family and laser dentistry, Dr. Lean is also the official dentist of the Toronto Maple Leafs. He is a member of the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) and the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). Dr. Lean and his team provide comprehensive dental care including sedation dentistry, dental implants, emergency dental care, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) to patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Scarborough, Oshawa, and Markham.
