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Overview: What Are Root Canals?

Root canals can save or repair teeth that have been damaged by infection or decay. When a tooth does not get needed root canal treatment, the surrounding tissue may become infected and surrounded by abscesses. Root canals consist of removing the inflamed and infected nerve and pulp of the tooth.

Resolving Pain With Root Canals

The dental issues that cause the need for root canals often make patients uncomfortable. At the bare minimum, patients will experience an excruciating toothache. These toothaches may be spontaneous, occurring even when the patient is not using the tooth. Eventually, this may evolve into a severe headache. Many patients often do not make the connection between the toothache and the headache.

When to See a Dentist About Root Canals

Many different factors may contribute to a patient needing a root canal. These conditions can manifest themselves as various symptoms. These include chips or cracks in teeth, pain while eating or touching the tooth, persistent pain, sensitivity to heat and cold, and swollen gums.

When Root Canals Are the Only Option

Root canal treatments are necessary when the pulp of the tooth has become inflamed or infected and needs removal. This may happen due to deep decay, cracks or chips in the tooth, faulty crowns, and repeated dental procedures. Patients should also be warned that facial trauma may still damage the pulp even when the tooth does not have visible chips or cracks. Leaving pulp inflammation or infection untreated may lead to pain or the formation of an abscess.

Alternatives to Root Canals

Root canals can help address any issues caused by infection and decay. However, for such treatment to be successful, there must be enough of the natural tooth remaining to save. While it is best to save and maintain natural teeth whenever possible, some teeth may be beyond repair. Teeth with severe fractures or cracks extending below the gum line, for example, may be better suited for extraction.

Emergency Root Canals in St. Albert

Since every tooth that requires a root canal is in the process of dying, patients should consider every root canal an emergency procedure. Delaying treatment will only increase the chances of pulp necrosis, or having the pulp of the tooth die off entirely. Only a root canal procedure or tooth extraction can reverse the symptoms of pulp necrosis. When left untreated, pulp necrosis may put patients at risk for infection, fever, jaw swelling, cellulitis, abscesses (including those in the brain), sinusitis, periodontitis, and bone loss. Contact our office immediately if you are experiencing severe toothaches when biting down or chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures (especially hot), darkening or discoloration of the teeth, swelling or tender gums, and pimples on the gums.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recovery Period After Tooth Extraction

After tooth extraction, it typically takes a few days to recover. Patients can take over-the-counter pain medication to minimize pain and discomfort. We recommend applying an ice pack to the affected area, avoiding smoking, and consuming soft foods.

Pain During Tooth Extraction

Patients receive local anesthetics during the procedure to keep them comfortable. It is normal to feel some pressure during the extraction, but it should not be painful. We may recommend over-the-counter pain medications to minimize any discomfort.

Post-Extraction Expectations

Patients will receive detailed care instructions to follow at home. It is normal to feel some discomfort once the anesthesia wears off. There may also be some swelling and slight bleeding for up to a day after the extraction.

Considerations for Tooth Extraction

Patients should have a consultation to determine the best treatment for their teeth. Extraction may be necessary for a tooth that can no longer undergo additional restorative procedures, has severe decay, or is overcrowding the rest of the teeth. An orthodontic treatment plan may also involve tooth extraction.

Smoking After Tooth Extraction

Smoking after a tooth extraction is prohibited to prevent complications. Smoking can dislodge the formed blood clot, leading to a painful dry socket and increasing the risk of infection. The blood clot plays an essential role in the healing of the wound.

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Dentist St. Albert