root canal Canning Vale

Root canals are notorious for being a painful procedure; but they don’t need to be. That’s why we provide a root canal treatment Canning Vale residents can trust for comfort. 

At Genesis Dental, we try to make painful procedures as comfortable as possible for our patients. Although every patient is different, many of our patients report hardly feeling anything during root canal treatment and our dentists in Canning Vale will strive to give you the same experience.

What is a Root Canal?

what is a root canal graphic

If the nerve of your tooth has become infected, it may be necessary to have a root canal treatment to eliminate the infection and save the tooth.

Root canal treatments involve several steps to resolve the infection and restore the tooth back to health.
Root canal steps include:

  1. Cleaning out the infected tooth and treating it with medication to remove the infection. A temporary filling is placed to seal out the bacteria.
  2. Cleaning and shaping the canals using small files
  3. Filling the empty canal space with a root filling material, then sealing it with a long-lasting crown.
During the procedure, we’ll keep you informed and as comfortable as possible. Afterward, we’ll provide a detailed after-care plan and support for any questions that come up.

Causes of a Root Canal

Once the enamel of a tooth is compromised by tooth decay, it can spread rapidly. The decay can spread inside the tooth getting closer and closer to the nerve that is in the centre of the tooth. If left untreated, it can cause the nerve to die or get infected and can lead to pain and swelling. It is important to have regular check-ups to detect early signs of decay as for the most part, a simple filling can fix the problem before the tooth requires a root canal.

dentists performing root canal treatment to patient

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms below, you may require a root canal to resolve the issue:

  • Injury to the tooth
  • Advanced or untreated tooth decay
  • Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold foods or beverages 
  • Severe pain while chewing or biting
  • Swelling, pain, or tenderness around your tooth
  • Discolouration of the tooth
  • Deep decay or darkening of the gums

Side Effects

Due to the developments in technology and advanced equipment, the likelihood of you experiencing side effects from a root canal are very slim.

However, like most dental procedures, it is imperative to follow the after-care instructions closely to ensure a smooth recovery.

After your root canal treatment, you may feel some sensitivity and swelling, especially if the pain or infection was severe. Pain and discomfort can be decreased with over-the-counter medication or a pain-relief medication prescribed by your dentist.

Following a root canal, your tooth may feel a little different from the surrounding teeth for a certain amount of time. Contact your dental provider immediately if:

  • Your bite feels uneven
  • You experience an allergic reaction to the prescribed medication

  • The temporary filling or crown comes loose

  • You experience visible swelling outside or inside your mouth

  • You have severe pain or pressure that persists for more than a few days

Root Canal FAQs

How can I prevent a root canal?

Proper oral hygiene is crucial for preventing root canals. Brush and floss daily and see your dentist for regular check ups. By looking after your teeth and gums, you can significantly reduce your chance of experiencing a tooth infection.

What is recovery like after a root canal?

We’ll give you a detailed after-care plan to follow after your root canal. Never try to eat while your mouth is still numb. Keep the area clean and use an antibacterial mouthwash to fend off germs. You may experience a dull aching sensation or tooth sensitivity for the first few days after treatment.

After treatment, the unrestored tooth is at risk of fracture and should not be used to bite or chew. It is also important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine that includes daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.