Root Canal Treatments
in Downtown Edmonton

Call (780) 423 -1869

A root canal treatment is a dental procedure designed to address infections or inflammation in the innermost layer of your teeth, known as the tooth pulp. Let’s explore the details:

  1. What Is a Root Canal?

    • A root canal involves several steps:
      • Removing Infected Pulp: The dentist or endodontist removes the infected or inflamed pulp from the tooth.
      • Cleaning and Disinfecting: The space inside the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected.
      • Filling and Sealing: After cleaning, the empty space is filled and sealed to prevent reinfection.
    • The goal is to eliminate bacteria, save the natural tooth, and prevent further complications.

  2. Why Would You Need a Root Canal?

    • Bacteria can invade the tooth pulp due to:
      • Deep Cavities: When a cavity reaches the inner pulp layer.
      • Cracked or Damaged Teeth: Bacteria from plaque infect the pulp.
    • Signs you may need a root canal:
      • Persistent Tooth Pain: Deep pain or pain spreading to the jaw, face, or other teeth.
      • Pressure Sensitivity: Pain when eating or touching the tooth.
      • Swollen Gums: Tender or swollen gums.
      • Gum Pimples: Pus-filled pimples on the gums.
      • Discolored Tooth: Darkening due to pulp infection.
      • Loose Tooth: Softening of bone support.

  3. Procedure Details:

    • Before treatment, X-rays are taken to assess the tooth’s condition.
    • Tests determine if the pulp is dead, infected, or inflamed.
    • During the procedure, the dentist:
      • Checks tooth sensitivity.

Remember, root canals are often painless and can save your natural tooth. If you experience symptoms, seek professional dental care promptly! 

Root Canal Treatments FAQs

 A root canal treatment can occasionally require retreatment. Here are some reasons why:

  1. Persistent Infection: Sometimes, despite the initial root canal, infection persists due to missed canals, complex tooth anatomy, or reinfection. Retreatment involves reopening the tooth, cleaning, and sealing it again.

  2. New Infection: A new infection can occur if bacteria re-enter the tooth. This might happen if the restoration (such as a crown) becomes loose or damaged.

  3. Fractured Tooth: A tooth can fracture over time, affecting the seal of the root canal. Retreatment may be necessary to address this issue.

  4. Delayed Crown Placement: After a root canal, a crown or filling is usually placed to protect the tooth. If this step is delayed, the tooth may become vulnerable to reinfection.

  5. Calcified Canals: Some canals may not be fully visible during the initial treatment due to calcification. Retreatment helps address these hidden canals.

  6. Symptoms Reappear: If you experience pain, swelling, or other symptoms after a root canal, consult your dentist promptly. It could indicate the need for retreatment.

Calcified canals within teeth can pose challenges during dental treatment, but they are treatable. Let’s explore how dentists address this issue:

  1. Understanding Calcified Canals:

    • Calcified canals occur when calcium deposits accumulate within the root channels of a tooth.
    • These deposits reduce the canal space, exerting pressure on the pulp, blood vessels, and nerves inside the tooth.
    • Color may change, appearing darker yellow.

  2. Treatment Options:

    • Precision-Shaped Tools:
      • Dentists use specialized tools and technology:
        • 3-D CT scans identify calcified channels.
        • Dental microscopes help locate canals during treatment.
        • Ultrasonic instruments minimize structure removal.

  3. Saving Severely Calcified Teeth:

    • In extreme cases, if the calcified tooth becomes infected, root canal treatments are performed.
    • If the tooth’s pulp and inner canals are infected, the calcified root canals may need removal before addressing the infection.