Root Canal Treatment

Do You Need Root Canal Treatment in Colwood?

When your dentist at Urban Smiles Colwood informs you that you need root canal treatment, otherwise referred to as endodontic treatment, it can be overwhelming.

There are many myths surrounding this type of dental procedure, not to mention the fact that many advances have taken place in the field of dentistry.  At our dental practice in Colwood BC we offer a wide range of services and take advantage of the latest innovations in root canal therapy to ensure that you have a positive experience with your procedure. You are not alone. It is more common than you would think.

The purpose of the root canal treatment is to remove and replace the infected pulp or the nerves in the tooth. If left unattended, the infection or abscess inside the root will deteriorate the tooth leading to greater complications.  

What Causes Root Canal Problems?

If you don’t take proper care of your teeth, the tooth enamel will decay and eventually form a cavity. With the passage of time, this decay will go deeper into the tooth from the enamel to the dentin, and will eventually get to the pulp and the blood vessels.

Once the infection reaches the pulp, a root canal intervention is going to be required. As with most infections, the sooner you are treated, the less chance there will be of complications. Here are some of the complications that can signal a root canal infection:

• Severe pressure on a tooth

• Intense pain while chewing

• Irregular sensitivity to temperatures

• Gum tenderness or swelling

• General tooth pain

• Darkening colours in the teeth

What Happens During Root Canal Treatment?

The root canal treatment is a very straightforward procedure in most cases. When a patient experiences inflammation or an infection in the roots of a tooth, a root canal may be suggested. During the treatment, the pulp inside the tooth is carefully removed, cleaned, disinfected, and shaped before placing a filling to seal the space.

How Do I Know if I Need Root Canal Treatment?

• Tooth pain when eating or when there is pressure on the area

• A small, pimple-like bump near the area of the pain on the gums

• Darkening of the tooth

• Swelling or tenderness

• Sensitivity to hot and cold.

If you experience any symptoms that suggest you need root canal treatment in Colwood, schedule an appointment at Urban Smiles Colwood.

With root canals, an early treatment can reduce further infection and discomfort. Call us today!