Root Canals Sherwood Park

sherwood park dentist

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is the process of removing infected, injured or dead pulp from your tooth. The space inside the hard layers of each tooth is called the root canal system. This system is filled with soft dental pulp made up of nerves and blood vessels that help your tooth grow and develop. When the nerve of your tooth becomes infected, a successful root canal treatment lets you keep the tooth rather than having to extract it. Keeping your tooth helps to prevent your other teeth from drifting out of line and causing jaw problems and avoids having to replace it with an artificial tooth.

What Happens During A Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure that often involves two or three visits. First is an exam is done where the dentist will to determine the extent of the infection and discuss treatment plans and will usually take X-rays to get a clearer picture. If a root canal is required, the procedure will usually be completed in 1-2 appointments.

Although procedures can vary according to your situation and practitioner preferences, on the day of the procedure itself you can expect something similar to:

  1. Anaesthesia will be used to numb the area.
  2. Using a rubber dam, your dentist will aim to keep the area saliva free and dry.
  3. Access will be created through the tooth by drilling a hole.
  4. Bacteria, decay and debris will then be removed via the hole along with the pulp using root canal files.
  5. The area will be flushed periodically to ensure it is cleaned effectively.
  6. The sides of the root canals are scraped and antibiotics or medication may be administered directly to the site to clear any lingering bacteria or signs of infection.
  7. Additional xrays are also taken during the procedure.

Depending on the extent of damage and how long this has taken, your dentist may stop during the procedure and fill the access hole with a temporary filling. The temporary filling will block the hole to avoid it from getting contaminated and keep substances out to reduce the risk of further infection before your next appointment.

However, if your dentist continues with the same procedure you can expect:

  1. The inside of the tooth to be filled with a specific compound while the access hole is provided with a regular filling.
  2. If the tooth itself is badly damaged beyond the restoration of an ordinary filling, it may need to be repaired with a crown but your dentist will discuss this with you.

Why Do I Need A Root Canal>

When the pulp and nerve of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed the tooth will need a root canal. This inflammation or infection can be due to a variety of reasons including:

  • Face trauma
  • Chipped or cracked teeth
  • Large fillings
  • Extensive procedures on the same tooth
  • Extensive tooth decay

Signs You May Need A Root Canal

  • Tooth darkening
  • Gum tenderness or swelling
  • Pimple on the gums (sign of draining infection)
  • Temperature sensitivity (which continues after the source has been removed)
  • Pressure such as chewing causing severe or excruciating pain

If you feel like you may need a root canal or are looking for relief, contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our dentists.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Where Is Your Clinic Located?

Mills Haven Dental is located in Sherwood Park, on Broadmoor Boulevard

What are your hours?

Please refer to our contact page to find our current hours of operation.

Do you accept insurance plans?

Yes, Mills Haven Dental accepts most insurance plans and we direct bill!!

With direct billing, we submit your insurance claims electronically with no processing charges or fees.

Do you provide dental services for babies and children?

Yes we do!

The staff at Mills Haven Dental understand that children's teeth undergo several challenges and changes in the growth process. That is why we recommend regular checkups for children of any age.

The Canadian Dental Association recommends the assessment of infants, by a dentist, within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth or around one year of age. The goal is to have your child visit the dentist before there is a problem with his or her teeth.

We are a family-oriented business and aim to help you and your entire family achieve and maintain a happy and healthy mouth.

We monitor the health of your child's teeth & gums to prevent disease, repair injury, and ensure optimal oral health.

Can I book evening and weekend appointments?

Please refer to our contact page to find our current hours of operation.

How long do I have to wait for an appointment?

Average wait time to see one of our dentists depends on the service you require, and the time of year.

During slow periods, you may be able to get in to see us in as little as one day.

Busy periods may require you to wait 1-2 weeks.

However, scheduling changes do occur, and we may be able to get you in for an appointment more quickly if anything opens up sooner.

Call us at 587-269-2697 to inquire about current available appointments!

Are you accepting new patients?

Yes!

Mills Haven Dental is always accepting new patients here in Sherwood Park, and we would love for you to come in and meet us.

How long does a standard cleaning take?

A cleaning for most individuals at Mills Haven Dental will be completed in approximately 1 hour however, some patients may require additional time or appointments depending on their individual needs.

image