Endodontics, Kingsway

Root Canal Treatments

As Technology in dentistry advances, we approach our treatment techniques in different manners. In many special cases, we perform the entire root canal treatment in a single sitting and that too with an antibiotic coverage for about 2-3 days depending on the type of decay and oral health of the patient. In our single sitting RCT process, only mild pain relievers might be required

How is a Root Canal done?

Root canal treatment consists of several steps that take place over several office visits, depending on the situation. These steps are: An opening is made through the back of a front tooth or the crown of a molar or pre-molar.After the diseased pulp is removed (a pulpectomy), the pulp chamber and root canals are cleaned, enlarged and shaped in preparation for being filled.If more than one visit is needed, a temporary filling is placed in the crown opening to protect the tooth between dental visits.The temporary filling is removed and the pulp chamber and root canal permanently filled. A tapered, rubbery material called gutta-percha is inserted into each of the canals and is often sealed into place with cement. Sometimes a metal or plastic rod is placed in the canal for structural support.In the final step, a crown is usually placed over the tooth to restore its natural shape and appearance. If the tooth is very broken down, a post may be required to build it up prior to placing a crown.

How is a Root Canal done?

Depending on the circumstances our dentist might recommend Desensitizing toothpaste. After several applications desensitizing toothpaste can help block pain associated with sensitive teeth.Fluoride. Your dentist might apply fluoride to the sensitive areas of your teeth to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce pain.Covering exposed root surfaces. If receding gums are the cause of your sensitive teeth your dentist might apply a sealant to cover the exposed tooth roots.Root canal. If your sensitive teeth cause severe pain and other treatments are not effective your dentist might recommend a root canal a procedure used to treat problems in the tooth soft core (dental pulp).Bonding agent the material used to stick tooth colored restorations to teeth can be used to seal the dentin surface and provide a barrier to the stimuli that cause sensitivity To prevent sensitive teeth from recurring your dentist might offer suggestions to help you maintain your oral health. Twice a day brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily. Avoid vigorous or harsh scrubbing highly abrasive toothpaste and excessive brushing and flossing. If you grind your teeth ask your dentist about a mouth guard. Tooth grinding (bruxism) can fracture teeth and cause sensitivity.

When to See A Doctor About Tooth Sensitivity

While you can often self-treat generalized tooth sensitivity see your dentist ifYour teeth are persistently sensitive to pressure.A single tooth is persistently sensitive which could indicate that its pulp is infected or dying.Sensitivity does not decrease after two weeks of using desensitizing toothpaste.You have dental pain that lasts more than an hour.The gums around a sensitive tooth change color.You have any obvious decay.