One of the most common questions we get asked at our dental clinic is whether or not a patient may need root canal therapy. While a few different factors can contribute to this decision, some common signs and symptoms may indicate that this type of treatment is necessary. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist to have things checked out:

Toothache: Aching or throbbing in your teeth can signify an infection that can cause pain and sensitivity. However, just because the symptoms fade doesn’t mean the problem is solved. The infection can still be present, and it may continue to damage the tooth if it’s not treated. A root canal may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.

Swollen soft tissue around the infected tooth: The swelling occurs when the infection spreads to the gum tissue, and it can be pretty painful if you touch it. If you have swelling in your mouth, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible so that they can determine whether or not you need root canal therapy.

Facial swelling: Facial swelling can indicate a severe dental infection. The swelling may be due to an abscessed tooth, a pus-filled pocket that forms around the tooth’s root. An abscess can cause severe pain and may require antibiotics or surgery to treat. Ignoring the pain in your mouth can lead to severe complications, so it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible if you experience any facial swelling.

Tooth abscess: A tooth abscess is an infection that develops when tooth decay is left untreated. Dental decay damages the tooth, allowing bacteria to enter the pulp. The bacteria multiply, causing the formation of a pus-filled pocket. If the infection isn’t addressed, it can spread to the bone around your tooth and cause more serious problems.

Tooth discolouration: It is important to remember that teeth can change colour for several reasons. It can be a sign of an infected pulp due to trauma or tissue breakdown, resulting in greyish-black teeth. If you notice that your teeth have become discoloured, it’s important to visit a dentist to find out the cause.

Root canal therapy is a common procedure that is performed to save a tooth that has been severely damaged by decay or infection. The goal of the procedure is to remove the damaged tissue and bacteria from the inside of the tooth. Here are the steps for root canal therapy:

Preparation: At your first appointment, the dentist will request a dental X-ray to look for signs of infection. Your dentist will numb the area using local anesthesia around the tooth to ensure a painless procedure.

The dentist will use a rubber dam to isolate the affected tooth and keep it clean and dry. In this way, you preserve your teeth while keeping things out of your mouth.

Opening the Tooth: Next, your dentist will access the root canal system by making a small opening in the tooth. They will remove dead tissue, such as blood vessels or connective fibres. A biocompatible substance will be used to fill its pulp chamber, producing an effective barrier against future infections.

Cleaning: Once the roots have been exposed, your dentist will clean and disinfect them. The dentist will first use sterile water or sodium hypochlorite spray. Next, they’ll apply an antibiotic solution to your teeth numerous times to sanitize them before vacuuming some debris away.

Root Shaping: One of the most important aspects of root canal therapy is shaping because this ensures that the filling material will be able to properly bond with the tooth and provide long-term protection. Dentists use a variety of rotating instruments to shape the canal. It is important to remove all necrotic tissue from the tooth before beginning the shaping process. Otherwise, there is a risk that the filling material will not bond correctly and could eventually fall out.

Root Filling: The dentist will begin by soaking the roots in an antibacterial solution to get rid of any bacteria that may be present. Once the roots are cleaned, the restorative dentist can place a temporary root canal filling to prevent food or saliva from becoming trapped while the patient is awaiting their next visit.

The temporary filling will be removed and replaced with a sealer paste to keep germs from entering at the next dental appointment. Finally, a permanent filling is placed to prevent future complications.

In some cases, artificial crowns may be used to repair teeth that are severely damaged. Other treatment options will be discussed with the patient by the dentist if necessary.

When a tooth becomes infected, it needs to be handled promptly to avoid further damage. If the infection is not removed, it can spread to other parts of the tooth and eventually lead to an abscess. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the end of the root. Abscesses are extremely painful and can cause serious health problems if left unmanaged.

In severe cases, the infection can even spread to other parts of the body, causing serious health complications. If you notice any signs of infection, such as sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling, or redness, it is important to contact a dentist immediately. Early treatment can help prevent the condition from worsening and avoid the need for costly procedures.

Root canal therapy is a common treatment for damaged or infected teeth. However, some alternatives to root canal therapy may not be suitable for certain patients.

Tooth Extraction: Severe dental decay or damage can sometimes necessitate the extraction of a tooth. This typically occurs when root therapy is no longer possible, and a tooth extraction is the only remaining option.

Pulpotomy: A pulpotomy is a dental procedure in which the pulp, or centre of the tooth, is removed. The pulp contains the blood vessels and nerves that keep the tooth alive. When inflamed or infected, it can cause pain, swelling, and sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.

A pulpotomy is often performed on primary or baby teeth to save them from extraction. Once the pulp is removed, the area is sealed with a special material to prevent further infection. The tooth will eventually become a part of the permanent tooth. A pulpotomy is a less invasive alternative to a root canal, and it can help preserve the health of the tooth.

Direct Pulp Capping: Direct pulp capping is a procedure used in dentistry to repair damaged teeth. The goal of direct pulp capping is to save the tooth and avoid the need for a root canal. This is done by protecting the exposed pulp (nerve tissue) with material, typically either a resin-based composite or an autologous blood product.

In some cases, direct pulp capping can successfully restore the tooth’s health, sealing off bacteria from entering and protecting other healthy teeth. This procedure is suitable for young patients who have strong teeth.