All of our teeth have nerves and when the nerve of a tooth becomes infected, extraction does not have to happen – you can keep that tooth. It is very important to keep all your teeth because if one comes out, the others may start drifting and this leads to jaw problems. More importantly, having natural teeth is much better than artificial.
Treatment for root canal is also known as endodontic treatment. This involves the process of eliminating injured, infested, or dead pulp from the mouth. Each tooth has hard layers that have space – this is called the root canal system. This system is filled with soft dental pulp containing blood vessels and nerves that help teeth develop.
Root canal treatment is done either by a qualified dentist or an endodontist. A local anesthetic is administered and in order to protect the tooth from saliva (as this contains bacteria), a rubber dam is placed around the tooth.
The dentist makes an opening in the tooth in order to reach the root canal system. Using fine instruments, the dentist removes the pulp. After this has been totally cleaned, the canal is filled and the tooth is sealed.
Depending on each situation, root canal treatments may be done in one or two appointments. Some patients feel tenderness for the first week or so, but bad pain or swelling is not common.
With today’s advanced dental technologies, root canals are not what they used to be. Dr. Wells works in root canals, utilizing microscopic, technologically advanced equipment that his patients get the best treatment available. If you have any questions or concerns about root canals, Eastgate Dental in Hamilton is more than pleased to speak with you. The newest member of the staff, Dr. Bhatti is an expert oral surgeon and performs oral surgery, extractions and implants. Please call 905-560-2714 or visit eastgatedentalcentre.com for more information.