When is Root Canal Needed


A woman receiving a root canal procedure.

Root canal treatments are perceived to be painful. Thus, many dread the thought of needing one.

If your dentist in Winnipeg says you may need it, it’s important to understand what you can expect from the procedure. This will help you make a confident and informed decision on navigating the options available for your situation.

But what are the signs you may need a root canal and what are the steps involved in the treatment? Does it hurt, and what’s the recovery period like? Let’s walk you through the answers in this post.

Signs You May Need Root Canal

Recognizing the symptoms below and sharing them with your dentist can help determine whether a root canal is necessary.

  • Toothache, particularly when you chew or apply pressure to the area
  • A pimple on the gumline
  • Swelling around the tooth
  • Persistent sensitivity to heat or cold
  • Teeth discoloration
  • Gums adjacent to the damaged tooth that feel sore or are inflamed
  • A loose tooth

Which is Better, Extractions or Root Canals?

When the health of a tooth is at stake, you may find the need to choose between an extraction or a root canal.

It’s a known dilemma among dental patients - is it better to have a damaged tooth removed than attempt to save it?

The Value of Preserving Teeth

Each tooth plays a role in speaking, chewing, and preserving jaw health.

Losing a tooth may result in various issues such as trouble speaking and eating, dental misalignment, and jaw bone loss.

Instead of extracting the tooth, root canal therapy treats the underlying cause of the issue within the tooth to preserve it.

Things to Consider

Deciding to keep or pull a tooth depends on several factors, including:

  • The extent of deterioration or infection
  • The tooth's structural integrity
  • Your general oral health
  • Cost considerations
  • Your comfort level and preferences

An honest and informed discussion about these aspects with your dentist will help point you in the right direction.

What is a Root Canal Therapy

When a tooth becomes severely damaged or diseased, it may be repaired and saved through a root canal procedure, commonly referred to as endodontic therapy.

The procedure includes extracting the tooth's pulp and nerve, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it. Modern methods and anesthesia make the process a lot more comfortable now that many equate it to getting a dental filling

Step-by-Step Procedure

Here's a quick overview of the fundamental steps involved in a root canal procedure

  • Your dentist examines the shape of the root canals and looks for any indications of infection in the surrounding bone by using an X-ray.

  • To keep you comfortable throughout the process, you’re given local anesthesia.

  • A rubber dam is placed around the tooth to protect it from bacteria in your saliva and keep it dry.

  • Using tiny dental instruments, your dentist creates an access hole on top of the tooth, where the damaged pulp is extracted.

  • The remaining pulp is then removed and the canals are reshaped to make room for the filling substance.

  • The canals are filled with a rubbery material and the opening is sealed with temporary filling.

  • A crown may also be inserted to restore function and safeguard the tooth.

Post-Procedure Care

You’ll receive thorough instructions to help with healing and recovery, but some general recommendations are as follows:

  • Avoiding chewing on the area.

  • Maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine to prevent infection and keep the tooth and its surroundings clean.

  • Following prescription instructions from your dentist.

The Road to Recovery

Handling Discomfort

It's common to experience soreness after a procedure, but it’s typically manageable with over-the-counter painkillers. If you experience excruciating pain or swelling, see your dentist as this could indicate problems.

Follow-Up Care

It's typical to have a follow-up visit a few weeks after your root canal to check if the tooth is healing properly. Your dentist will see if the infection has cleared and discuss restoration options.

Learning More About Your Oral Health

By listening to your body and taking note of signs, understanding the procedure, and committing to post-treatment care, you can approach the need for a root canal confidently.

Knowledge is as essential as any treatment for your oral health. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist in Winnipeg Manitoba so they can guide you through the right path – whether that includes a root canal or not.