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What is a Root Canal Procedure?

February 9, 2018

Those three words, root canal procedure, are not what most people like to hear, especially if root canal surgery has been recommended. A good root canal dentist Vancouver will diagnose the problem to determine if the tooth can be saved through root canal therapy. In most cases, the tooth can be saved by removing the pulp inside the tooth. If the nerves, blood vessels and tissues have been damaged, are dying or already dead, they will need to be removed.

After the pulp has been removed, your dentist in Vancouver will clean the root canals before filling with a medication to help keep the roots clear. In some cases, a temporary crown may be placed to allow the root canals to heal.

Once your root canals have healed, your dentist in Vancouver will remove the temporary crown and replace it with a permanent dental restoration.

In some cases, conventional root canal treatment is not enough, which could require root canal surgery. This type of surgery locates hidden canals or tiny fractures that an examination, x-ray, or digital picture didn’t pick up. You may also need root canal surgery if calcium deposits on the canals have to go.

Why do I Need Root Canal Surgery?

Root canal surgery is performed under a local anesthetic and is a procedure that your dentist in Vancouver will use to remove any inflamed tissue under the bone. A small filling may or may not be used at the end of the root canal. Stitches will be used that allow the bone to healing.

Why Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?

A root canal dentist Vancouver may be recommended if your soft tissue or pulp inside the roots of your tooth is infected. Infection can be caused by:

  • Chips or cracks to the tooth
  • Recurring restoration that weakens the tooth
  • Deep decay
  • Large cavities
  • A broken tooth
  • Untreated dental caries

A root canal procedure is essential for the health of the tooth. Dr. Seddon, General Dentist, will do his best to save the tooth and always recommends regular checkups to detect any problem areas. This may help prevent root canal therapy in the future.

If you have been having problems with an old root canal that may require root canal surgery, or have a tooth that is bothering you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Nick Seddon, General Dentist, from Ocean Front Dental today.

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