Dentist Serving Calgary, Cochrane, Airdrie, and Nearby Areas of Alberta
Endodontics is the field of dentistry concerned with the health of the inside portion of a tooth, called the pulp. If you're suffering from a toothache caused by infection or injury to a tooth's pulp, Calgary dentist Dr. Gordon Chee will likely recommend root canal therapy.
Many of our patients in Calgary are concerned about root canal therapy, but Dr. Chee and his team will take steps to help you feel more at ease. Please call Aesthetic Dental Studio today at 403-543-4600 to schedule a consultation in Calgary, Canada.
When Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?
Dentists often recommend endodontic treatment in order to save a tooth when the health of the pulp becomes compromised. Once a tooth is fully developed, the pulp can be removed safely.
A root canal procedure might be necessary in the event of:
- Serious tooth decay
- Fracture of the tooth, exposing the pulp
- Injury to the tooth resulting in soft tissue damage
If you begin experiencing pain, sensitivity to hot and cold and tenderness in the gums, talk to your dentist as soon as possible. When left untreated, infection of dental pulp can get worse and potentially cause an abscess to develop at the root of the tooth.
Who Is A Good Candidate for Root Canal Therapy?
Candidates for root canal therapy are those who experience severe tooth decay that is affecting the enamel and dentin of the tooth. The severity of this decay can cause infections in the tooth where nerves are located, causing consistent pain, and making it difficult to eat or drink. Candidates can expect root canal therapy to relieve this pain and restore your tooth. Root canals are recommended for both children and adults, as it prioritizes improving the overall health of the teeth and mouth. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, regular visits to your dentist are recommended, as well as root canals if you need them.
How Does Dr. Chee Perform Root Canal Therapy?
When you visit our Calgary office, Dr. Chee will answer your questions about endodontics and explain the steps of a root canal. The procedure involves the following:
- Our team administers a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissue
- A rubber dam isolates the affected tooth and keeps it clear of saliva
- Dr. Chee drills through the tooth's enamel and dentin into the pulp chamber
- The infected pulp is removed with tools called root canal files and diligently cleaned
- The inside of the tooth is sealed with materials like gutta-percha (a natural rubber), as well as a temporary or permanent filling
Depending on the strength and stability of the tooth after root canal therapy, Dr. Chee might recommend reinforcing the filling with a metal post. Direct and indirect methods of placing this post are available, and Dr. Chee can explain which option might work best for you.
Patient Testimonial
"Love the work done on my teeth by Dr. Chee, the results are outstanding. Thankful for such an extremely talented, kind and caring professional. Thank you to all of his great staff for answering all of my questions and helping with the process. Exceptional patient experience."
What Happens After The Therapy Is Completed?
The final step of root canal therapy is the creation of a custom dental crown to complete the restoration process. The crown will seal off the inside of your tooth and return your normal chewing function.
Our dental team will take impressions of your mouth so the crown fits your tooth perfectly. The dental porcelain will be shaded to match the color of surrounding teeth, so your smile will still look natural.
Are There Any Risks With Root Canal Therapy?
Just like any dental procedure, root canals do come with certain risks. These can include increased tooth sensitivity when eating and drinking cold or hot food items and beverages. A tooth with a root canal in it may also be prone to darkening and food stains faster than normal teeth, resulting in discoloration. Root canal therapy may also require more than one dental appointment which can end up costing more than most patients are expecting, however, for patients who are not looking to undergo tooth removal or extraction, a root canal is often their best option. While you may experience some discomfort following your procedure, this pain will subside within a few days. Most complications and side effects that come from root canal therapy can be avoided with the proper care and treatment.
What Are the Benefits of Root Canal Therapy?
Toothaches can be incredibly painful. They often make it difficult to eat, drink, and even sleep at night. Patients who experience this often find long-lasting relief after having root canal therapy. Not only does it help relieve pain, but it also acts as an alternative to tooth extraction. Once you lose a tooth, you cannot get it back. This is the reason why many patients choose root canal therapy, as they are able to go back to using their natural teeth while also avoiding the pain and complications that can come with tooth extractions.
Is It Possible to Avoid The Need for Root Canals In the Future?
Though there are professional services in addition to root canal therapy that Dr. Chee and the team at Aesthetic Dental Studio can provide to save a damaged or decayed tooth, the pain and discomfort that comes with suffering from a toothache is not something most patients want to experience. To avoid toothaches and the need for root canals in the future, you can follow these steps:
Brush and Floss Regularly
While you should already be brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once a day, it’s important to keep up this routine if you are hoping to avoid your next cavity, tooth damage, or any other oral complication. Keeping your mouth clean and taken care of will prevent the need for root canals.
Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods
Sticky foods such as chewing gum or caramel, and hard foods such as ice can have an impact on the natural wear-and-tear of your teeth. Avoid these foods, or have them in moderation, if you are looking to lessen your chances of needing root canal therapy.
Avoid Drinks That Can Damage Your Teeth
Most people know that drinks such as coffee and tea can stain your teeth, and the carbonation in sodas can further wear down the health of your teeth, but most people overlook the dangers of fruit juices on how their acidity can also cause damage to your teeth. Avoid these drinks to keep your teeth as healthy as possible.
Get Dental Cleanings Regularly
Visiting your dentist for regular cleanings twice a year is a great way to get checked for any oral complications you might have. Identifying any problems in your mouth or with your teeth as early as possible will lead to better results, the earlier you are able to treat them.
Schedule a Consultation in Calgary, Canada Today
It's not uncommon to be nervous about root canal therapy. To learn more about our endodontic services, please contact Aesthetic Dental Studio online or call 403-543-4600 to schedule a one-on-one consultation. Dr. Chee serves patients in and around communities throughout the Calgary area.
