You may have heard the term root canal and wondered what it is or why people may need one. Well, a root canal is a dental procedure that removes the infected pulp (the nerve of the tooth) and fills the chamber with rubber material before sealing it in. The goal is to remove the infection from inside the tooth to avoid having to extract it instead.
Why would you need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if bacteria in your teeth reach the pulp and cause inflammation (pulpitis). This happens when bacteria damage the outer layers of the tooth, called the Enamel and Dentin, and reach the innermost layer of nerves, called the pulp. Damage to the pulp can occur from a deep cavity or a large fracture that exposes the pulp.
A dental x-ray would be taken to determine if the pulp has been damaged by the bacterial infection, and if it can still be saved. If your dentist determines the inflammation is still in its early stages (called reversible pulpitis), they can begin treatments like fillings. However, if the pulp is completely damaged and cannot be saved, the only options are a root canal treatment or extraction. After the root canal, a crown will be needed to restore the strength and functionality of the tooth. Regular checkups with your dentist help catch bacterial infections early on, so less invasive procedures would be needed.
Symptoms of reversible pulpitis:
- Sensitivity to cold or sweets that goes away quickly
- Often a sharp pain
- No pain when your dentist taps your tooth
Symptoms of irreversible pulpitis:
- Sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweets that lasts more than 30 seconds
- Pain when your dentist taps your tooth
- Intense pain
- Bad breath
- Swelling around tooth and gums
What is pulpotomy?
A pulpotomy is a dental procedure where the pulp is removed from only the crown of the tooth while preserving the nerves in the root. This procedure is typically done on baby teeth when the damage to the pulp is limited to the crown portion of the tooth. The goal is to remove the bacterial infection and maintain the baby tooth until it naturally falls out. After the chamber is filled, a filling or crown will be needed to keep the tooth functional.
Remember to consult your dentist, Dr. Abid Hidayat, if you’re experiencing any symptoms or want more information on Root Canals. As Scarborough’s leading dentist in family dental care, we care about what you need. You can reach our dental office in Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, by calling 416-546-5599