What to expect from root canal treatment

There’s a good chance that if you mention the term “root canal” in a room full of people, many will reflexively wince. It’s perhaps one of the most feared and misunderstood dental procedures globally. While a root canal is an intensive dental procedure, it’s nothing like what’s depicted in movies and TV shows. At Smile Horizons Dental Arts in Mississauga, Ontario, Dr. Hytham Elwi and his team use root canal therapy to give patients much-needed relief from tooth pain.

Saving a natural tooth

Root canal therapy can save a natural tooth that has become infected. The procedure involves Dr. Hytham Elwi removing the infected tooth pulp, consisting of blood vessels, tissue, and cells. Root canals may take between one and three sessions, depending on the extent of the infection. Large infections and curved canals are the primary causes of additional appointments.

What happens during a root canal?

After you arrive at our practice for your appointment, you’ll be seated comfortably in a dental chair where we administer a local anesthetic to numb the targeted area, providing a level of comfort during the procedure. First, Dr. Elwi will remove the infected pulp and clean the area. He may place a dental dam to prevent bacteria from infecting other areas within your mouth. Dr. Elwi will then fill the tooth using a rubber-like substance which will effectively seal off the area.

After this, the tooth will be much more fragile, so Dr. Elwi will place a filling or crown to keep it sturdy and functional. You will not feel any more pain following the procedure because all the infected and inflamed pulp tissue has been removed.

The best way to prevent tooth infections

Good oral hygiene habits are one of the most important forms of defence against tooth decay and infections. By preventing these infections, you can also decrease the chances you’ll ever need a root canal. Here are a few tips to help you better care for your teeth:

• Brush and floss your teeth no fewer than two times per day
• Visit a dentist at least twice each year for exams and routine cleanings
• Use toothpaste containing fluoride and schedule regular fluoride treatments with your dentist
• Have your dentist give you dental sealants for additional protection
• Eat foods that are healthy and avoid sugar as much as possible

Get much-needed pain relief today!

Saving a painful infected tooth via a root canal will only bring you relief at the end of the day. Let Dr. Hytham Elwi and his team help you. Please contact Smile Horizons Dental Arts at (905) 607-8778 to schedule your consultation today.

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