Root Canal Therapy
Skilled Root Canal Therapy in Thunder Bay
If you're dealing with an infected tooth, it can prevent you from living your life to the fullest. Not only can the pain be distracting but left untreated, the infection can progress to severe health complications like blood poisoning. At Northwood Family Dental, we're proud to offer root canal therapy to help improve and protect your smile's health.
For years, we've been a trusted dentist to Thunder Bay, Nipigon, and Atikokan. Our practice can handle simple and complex cases alike. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and take the first step toward getting the pain relief you deserve!
CALL US: (807) 475-7500 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Although your tooth is made of durable enamel that can last years of repeated use, it's susceptible to damage and decay. When the surface of your tooth is compromised, it creates a channel for bacteria to enter your tooth's pulp, which contains sensitive nerves and blood vessels. Once the bacteria infect your tooth's pulp, it can lead to discomfort, infection, and potential tooth loss if left untreated.
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure designed to eliminate bacteria, protect your tooth, and preserve its natural structure. Our Thunder Bay dentist will create openings in your tooth where they'll remove infected tissue and place an antibacterial material that protects it from future infection. Afterward, we'll place a crown to restore the aesthetics and functionality of your tooth.
5 Signs of Tooth Infection
It's crucial that you understand the signs of tooth infection. If you notice any sign of tooth infection, you should contact our office immediately as the sooner we treat it, the better. Our team will help break down what to look for, as some signs are more subtle than others. Some common signs of tooth infection include:
- Increasing sensitivity to hot or cold food and beverages
- Throbbing pain when applying pressure to your tooth
- Swelling and inflammation of the gums around your tooth
- Darkening of your tooth's enamel
- Noticing abscesses on your gums
Our Root Canal Therapy Process
During your initial visit, our team of dentists will conduct a thorough oral exam. By using technology like x-rays, we'll determine the severity and extent of your tooth's infection. If the infection is severe, we'll prescribe you antibiotics and wait until the infection has subsided to conduct the treatment. However, if your tooth's infection is manageable, we can perform root canal therapy during the same appointment. Once the procedure is complete, we'll then place a crown depending on your tooth's unique needs.
High-Quality Restorative Crowns
A crown is a dental restoration that repairs the functionality of a single tooth while blending in with your smile. Crowns are necessary following root canal therapy as infection compromises your tooth's overall structure. Our Thunder Bay dentist will help you determine which crown offering is right for you. We offer two forms of crowns, including:
Traditional Crowns: A traditional crown is a dental restoration placed over your tooth to improve and protect it. Typically, it takes two appointments to place your crown. We'll begin by taking impressions of your tooth and provide you with a temporary crown while your permanent one is made. Once your permanent crown is ready, we'll call you for a second appointment to place it and make any necessary adjustments for a comfortable fit.
CEREC Same-Day Crowns: Unlike traditional crowns, CEREC same-day crowns use state-of-the-art technology to craft your crown in a single visit. Our CEREC machine quickly and efficiently carves out your crown using a block of ceramic. This technology helps save you time as you don't have to adjust your schedule for a second appointment.
Root Canal Therapy FAQs
It's normal to have countless questions about root canal therapy. Our friendly and supportive staff is here to answer your questions and provide you with peace of mind about the procedure. Some frequently asked questions about root canal therapy include:
Root canal therapy has an unfair reputation for being painful. However, with advancements in technology and techniques, you can expect to feel minimal discomfort.
Proper oral care is crucial for preventing tooth infection. You must regularly brush and floss your teeth and visit our office for regular dental checkups. Additionally, we recommend reducing your intake of sugary and acidic foods, as they can erode your tooth's enamel and provide an opening for bacteria.
It depends on the severity and location of your infection. For severe cases or infected molars, they may require two visits. However, non-complex root canal therapy typically only requires a single appointment.
A Thunder Bay Dentist You Can Trust
Whether you have a simple or complex tooth infection, our practice is here for you. At Northwood Family Dental, we have years of experience providing our patients with the relief they deserve through root canal therapy, and we want to do the same for you. Call us today to schedule your next appointment for quality root canal therapy in Thunder Bay!
CALL US: (807) 475-7500 REQUEST APPOINTMENT
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