Endodontics

Symptoms of endodontic issues include:

• Inflammation or tenderness of the gums
• Soreness during chewing or biting down
• Severe tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods/beverage
• Discolouration on the tooth

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, see our dentist in Thornhill for a check-up. Time is of the essence - as you may be dealing with an infected tooth that can be restored with a filling before a root canal is required.

Furthermore, if root canal therapy is not performed on an infected tooth in a timely manner, the infection can go on to affect the surrounding tissues and bone. This is why it is so important to see a professional about a problematic tooth sooner than later.

Common issues that may lead to requiring a root canal:

• Bacterial Infection (Decay) – When an infection of the tooth progresses after going a long time without intervention, a dental filling may no longer suffice as treatment, and a root canal treatment will be the next option to consider.
• Chips and Fractures/Breakage – When a large portion of a tooth’s surface detaches completely, endodontic therapy may be required. Considerable loss of the tooth’s enamel exposes the pulp, resulting in pain and rendering the tooth susceptible to problems.
• Accidents and Injuries – A direct or indirect hit to the mouth can result in injury to the tooth, oftentimes causing enough damage to require endodontic care

What happens during a RCT procedure?

During a typical root canal therapy procedure, the tooth will first be isolated using a rubber dam in order to protect it from bacteria and moisture.

Next, the dentist or endodontist will numb the area using a local anesthetic for a pain-free procedure. Then, he or she will make a small entryway via drilling into the tooth's surface to access the pulp of the tooth. The canals will be sufficiently cleaned out, prepared/enlarged and finally filled with a special material known as “gutta percha”. Lastly, a dental crown will be placed on the tooth to provide it with structure and support, and to protect it from future damage.

There are a variety of different dental crowns made from different materials that patients can choose to cap off their treatment. Our Thornhill dentist is always happy to discuss options with the patient when it comes to choosing the right crown for their treated tooth.

The success rate for root canal procedures is very high – and patients can often keep their treated tooth for years to come provided they look after it properly.

Think you’re in need of endodontic care?

For more information on our Thornhill endodontic services, or to schedule a visit with our dentist, contact us today. We’d be happy to hear from you

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