Root Canals 101: Everything You Need to Know About Saving Your Tooth

If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, lingering sensitivity, or swelling around a specific tooth, this could be a sign that something more serious is going on beneath the surface. When the inside of your tooth becomes inflamed or infected, often due to deep decay, repeated dental work, or injury, a root canal may be the best way to relieve your discomfort and save your natural tooth.

Root canal treatment isn’t as intimidating as it sounds. In fact, it’s a gentle, effective solution that helps stop pain at its source and prevents more complicated dental issues down the road.

What is a Root Canal?  

A root canal is a type of endodontic treatment used to remove infection or damage from inside your tooth. It helps clean, seal, and protect the tooth to prevent further issues. The goal is to relieve pain, preserve the natural tooth, and restore normal function.

Recognizing the Need for a Root Canal

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to talk to your dentist about a root canal:

• Persistent toothache or throbbing pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
• Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
• A small bump or pimple on the gum (which could indicate infection)

What Happens During a Root Canal? 

At Gentle Dental, we make the root canal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you can expect:

X-Ray and Exam

We begin by taking a detailed X-ray to check the extent of the infection and assess the shape of the root canals. This step helps us plan your treatment with precision and care.

Numbing the Area

We’ll gently numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure you feel completely comfortable. Most patients say the procedure feels no more intense than a routine filling.

Accessing the Pulp 

A small opening is made in the top of your tooth to reach the infected pulp. With the numbing in place, this step is quick and painless.

Cleaning and Shaping the Canals

We carefully remove the damaged pulp using specialized tools and clean out the infection. Then we shape the canals so they can be sealed properly.

Filling the Canals

Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material that keeps bacteria out and supports long-term tooth health.

Placing the Crown 

Finally, we restore your tooth with a custom-made crown. This helps protect the tooth and restore full function so you can chew and smile confidently.

Trust Gentle Dental for Expert Root Canal Treatments 

At Gentle Dental, we know that dental procedures can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to make your care easy, affordable, and stress-free from consultation to recovery. Our friendly team uses the latest techniques and technology to ensure your root canal treatment is as quick and comfortable as possible.

Don’t put off the care you need. Whether you’re in pain or just want answers, we’re here to help you smile again.