Pickering, ON dentist can restore health with root canal therapy

Root canals are probably one of the most dreaded procedures in dentistry. What are they all about really? Do they hurt? Dr. Awadalla, a Pickering, ON dentist takes on the myths about root canals and shares with patients how they can be a vital procedure to save a tooth from extractions.

Does root canal therapy hurt?

Root canal therapy is performed under local anesthetic and is virtually painless. The goal of root canals is to alleviate pain associated with a large cavity. Let’s first dive into the anatomy of the tooth.

The hard, outermost layer of the tooth is called the enamel. Underneath the enamel is the dentin and further within that is the pulp chamber which house nerves and the blood supply.

When a patient ends up with a deep cavity, injury, or fracture, the pulp chamber is susceptible to bacteria. Once infected with bacteria, the nerves become highly sensitive to temperature and pressure, which can be extremely painful. The infection can also travel to the gums, causing pus-filled abscesses.

Root canal therapy eliminates infection from to tooth and seals the area so bacteria cannot re-enter. It is similar to a filling. After the root canal is completed, the tooth will then be covered with a crown to help strengthen it and make sure it can withstand the force of biting and chewing. The crown will blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile for a natural looking restoration.

As with most dental problems, root canal therapy can be avoided through proper oral hygiene. It is important to brush twice daily and floss once each day. In addition, patients should be proactive about regular dental visits. Early detection can help ensure cavities are caught early before they have time to progress and cause further damage. For more information on root canal therapy or other services provided in our Pickering office, call the Esquire Dental Centres at 905 250-1605 to schedule a consultation.

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