Root canal treatment is a common dental treatment that helps to save a badly damaged or infected tooth. Many feel a little anxious about this, but knowing the process makes it less scary. This treatment helps to remove the infection from the tooth, minimize pain, and protect from future damage.
Let’s go through the stages of root canal therapy in NW Calgary step by step.
1. Diagnosis and Examination
Before starting a root canal treatment procedure, the dentist first examines the tooth. This step helps determine if a root canal is necessary.
The following are the steps in this stage:
- The dentist asks about symptoms such as pain or sensitivity.
- Dental X-rays are taken to check the tooth for infection or damage.
- If the root canal is to be done, the dentist will explain the process.
Once the diagnosis is done, the dentist will schedule an appointment for treatment.
2. Numbing the Tooth
Many people worry about pain during a root canal. The good news is that the dentist uses local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area.
What really happens in this stage?
- The dentist puts numb gel on the gums.
- A local anesthetia is injected to ensure there is no pain.
- An area around the tooth is completely numbed before the procedure.
This step makes the treatment comfortable for the patient.
3. Removing the Infection
This is when the main part of the treatment takes place as soon as the tooth becomes numb. This is an important step that extracts the pulp out of the tooth if it is infected or damaged within.
Steps involved:
- The dentist makes a small opening on the top of the tooth.
- Special dental tools are used to clean out the infected pulp and bacteria.
- The root canals are shaped in preparation for filling.
This stage removes the pain and prevents the infection from spreading.
4. Cleaning and Disinfecting the Tooth
After the pulp is removed, the dentist cleans the inside of the tooth. This step ensures that no bacteria or infection remains.
Key steps:
- The dentist rinses the canals with a special disinfecting solution.
- The canals are dried to remove any moisture.
- Sometimes, medicine is placed inside the tooth to eliminate any remaining bacteria.
This step is important to prevent future infections.
5. Filling the Root Canals
Once the tooth is clean and dry, the dentist fills the root canals with a special material called gutta-percha.
Why is this step important?
- It seals the canals to prevent bacteria from entering.
- It helps the tooth stay strong and stable.
- It prepares the tooth for the final restoration.
After filling, the dentist places a temporary filling on top of the tooth.
6. Placing the Crown
A tooth that has undergone a root canal becomes weak. To protect it, a dental crown is placed over the tooth.
Steps in this stage:
- The dentist removes the temporary filling.
- The tooth is shaped to fit a crown.
- A custom-made crown is placed over the tooth.
A crown helps restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
Most Painful Stage of a Root Canal
Many people ask, “What is the most painful stage of a root canal?” The good news is that modern root canal treatments are not very painful due to anesthesia. However, the most discomfort may be felt:
- Before treatment: due to the infection and inflammation.
- After treatment: mild soreness for a few days, which can be managed with pain relievers.
The procedure itself is usually painless.
Root Canal Treatment Timeline
A root canal is usually completed in one to two visits.
- Single Visit: If the infection is not severe, the treatment can be completed in one day.
- Multiple Visits: If there is a serious infection, the dentist may place medicine inside the tooth and complete the treatment in another appointment.
The dentist will explain the timeline based on the tooth’s condition.
Key Takeaway
A root canal treatment procedure may sound complicated, but it is a safe and effective way to save a tooth. The process involves several steps, but with modern techniques, it is not as painful as many people think. If you experience tooth pain or sensitivity, visit your dentist to check if a root canal is needed.
Save Your Tooth with Root Canal Therapy!
At Royal Vista Dental, we offer root canal therapy to save your natural tooth and relieve pain. If you have a severe toothache or an infected tooth, our experienced team of dentist in NW Calgary can help. Root canal treatment removes infection, prevents further damage, and restores your tooth’s strength.
Don’t wait for the pain to get worse—schedule your appointment today! Call us now to protect your smile and keep your teeth healthy.