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when is a root canal necessary

Root canal treatments are provided as a part of endodontics in Edmonton to save a tooth after its root has been exposed to bacteria and become infected. Many individuals are nervous about getting a root canal because the mainstream media has made it seem scary and painful. In truth, root canals are a very safe and effective procedure necessary to save a tooth from extraction. You may feel a little overwhelmed if told you to need a root canal. Our team at Westside Family Dental has put together this article so that you can learn more about root canal treatment near you and better understand this simple procedure.

What Circumstance Warrants a Root Canal?

Your tooth is made of many layers. The first layer of your tooth is called the enamel, which protects your tooth and keeps out harmful bacteria. When the enamel has worn down and cracks, the inner part of your tooth, known as the pulp, becomes susceptible to infection and injury. The pulp of your tooth contains all the vital nerves and blood vessels to keep your tooth healthy and functional. If it becomes infected, the infected portion of the pulp must be removed before it can spread and cause your tooth to die and need extracting. This is what a root canal does. Our dental clinic offers root canal treatments in Edmonton to prevent you from losing your natural tooth and alleviate the painful symptoms of a tooth infection.

How Do You Know if You Require a Root Canal?

If you are experiencing any pain in your tooth, it is always important to visit our dental clinic in West Edmonton as soon as possible.

Some of the following symptoms may indicate that you require a root canal:

  • Lingering sensitivity after ingesting hot or cold substances
  • Severe tooth pain when chewing
  • Darkening or discoloured tooth
  • Dental abscess
  • Swollen and tender gums around the infected tooth
  • A rotten taste in your mouth

Sometimes, individuals can have an infected tooth without any symptoms. This is why you must visit our team at Westside Family Dental for regular professional dental cleanings and checkups at least once every six months.

How Does a Root Canal Procedure Work?

When you come to Westside Family Dental for a root canal procedure, our dentist will begin by administering a local anesthetic so you do not feel any pain. They will then drill a small hole into the surface of your tooth so that they can reach the infected pulp and remove it. The hole will then be disinfected and filled. A dental crown will be placed over the tooth to keep it strong and protected from further infection.

Healing After a Root Canal

While you should feel substantially better after your root canal, it is normal to experience some soreness and tenderness after getting a root canal. This should subside within a few days and can be managed using over-the-counter painkillers. If you continue noticing significant pain after your procedure, return to our dental office for a checkup.

Visit Westside Family Dental

If you require a root canal, visit our team of dedicated dental professionals at Westside Family Dental. Our team is happy to walk you through each step of the procedure and ensure that you feel safe and comfortable throughout your visit. Please get in touch with us to book a consultation today!