Root Canals

Root Canals in Bow Island and Medicine Hat: Eliminate pain and avoid tooth extractions

Root canals almost always offer patients immediate pain relief after the procedure. However, people still shy away from this treatment because of misinformation or preconceived notions.

At Bow Island Dental Centre, we can assure you this process is easier than you might think. Root canals (also known as endodontic treatments) offer a simple, straightforward procedure that’s no more uncomfortable than a filling.

When to get a root canal

Root canals are needed when a severe infection develops within the pulp under the hard layers of a tooth.

This infection is caused by bacteria entering the tooth through a deep cavity, a cracked filling or other cracks in the enamel.

You should visit the dentist right away if you’re experiencing tooth pain that’s intensifying over time.

What to expect in a root canal procedure

Once we administer a local anaesthetic and the freezing sets in, we perform the following:

• Carefully drill into the affected tooth
•  Thoroughly clean away all infected tissue
•  Seal the canal to prevent any further infection
•  Attach a temporary or permanent filling

After the procedure, we restore the structure, colour and shape of the tooth with a permanent filling or a crown. If the affected tooth is located in the back of your mouth, it will likely need a crown to withstand the force of chewing. However, if there’s not enough tooth left behind to affix the crown, we may use dental posts to support it.

Avoid tooth extraction and stop pain for good

Most root canal treatments are successful, which fortunately prevent the possible need for a tooth extraction down the road. Tooth extractions not only affect your confidence (as they leave behind a noticeable gap), but there’s a host of other oral health issues that can crop up too (such as misaligned teeth, infection, or even problems with the jaw). That’s why treating infected roots sooner than later is ideal – and much more comfortable in the long run.

Following root canal treatments, patients typically only experience some lingering tenderness that fades in a couple of days. To help the treated tooth stay healthy, be sure to follow good oral hygiene practices – and, of course, schedule regular dental visits!

Daily tooth pain is not ideal and you deserve better. If you’re experiencing mysterious tooth pain, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Bow Island Dental Centre.

EXTRACTIONS Post-Operative Care Instructions

• After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. If bleeding or oozing persists, insert another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times.
• Do not rinse or spit for 24 hours after surgery.
• Keep your fingers and tongue away from the socket or surgical area.
• Use ice packs on the surgical area (side of face) for the first 48 hours; apply ice 20 minutes on and 10 minutes off.
• For mild discomfort, take Tylenol or ibuprofen every 3-4 hours. For severe pain, used the medication prescribed to you.
• Drink plenty of fluids. (DO NOT USE A STRAW)
• We suggest that you do not smoke for at least 5 days after surgery.
• Avoid strenuous activity and do not exercise for at least 3-4 days after surgery.
• After the first post-operative day, use warm salt water rinse following meals for the first week to flush out food particles of food and debris that may lodge in the surgical area.
• Your diet should consist mainly of soft, easily swallowed foods and cool drinks. Avoid anything that might get stuck in your teeth, so no seeds, nuts, rice, popcorn or similar foods.