Root Canal Treatment in North Vancouver
If bacteria gets into imperfections in our teeth (cracks/breakage/cavities/loose fillings), the tooth’s pulp can become infected, resulting in an abscess, which will cause pain and swelling at the site of the infection, requiring treatment to avoid further complications.
A root canal, also known as endodontic therapy, is a routine dental treatment procedure performed to repair and save an infected, inflamed or damaged tooth by removing the canal’s injured tissue instead of the tooth itself.
Do I Need a Root Canal?
It’s pertinent to know that not all pain and swelling felt in the mouth indicate an abscess or the need for a root canal. It is, however, essential to recognize some warning signs that may indicate further evaluation is needed by one of our dental specialists.
They can determine if a root canal may be best for you. Be on the lookout for one or more of the following signs:
- Pain, as mentioned, with applied pressure, at rest or while biting, eating, or chewing.
- Swelling seen in the jaw or lymph nodes (glands) of the neck.
- Red, swollen gums.
- A lump or boil formed on the gums.
- Tooth discoloration (due to altered blood supply)
- A presence of fever.
- A general feeling of unwellness or discomfort.
- A foul odour emitting from the mouth (extremely bad breath).
- A bitter taste in the mouth.
- Open or seeping sore within the gums.
- Sensitivity to heat and cold. (Think pain when drinking hot tea and/or eating cold ice cream)
- Chipped, cracked, or loose teeth.
Many of these signs indicate some illness or dental condition that needs attention; one of our dentists will help assess and address your concerns and make arrangements to best correct the issue at hand.
How a Root Canal is Performed at Bayview Lonsdale Dentist
A root canal is a relatively safe and cost-effective procedure. The BC provincial government has established the fee guideline for one uncomplicated root canal service, including necessary radiographs and clinical procedures, to cost $519.
If requiring multiple root canals, the cost incurred is around $661 for two canals, $925 for three, and $1017 for four or more.
At Bayview Lonsdale Dentist, an uncomplicated root canal Treatment follows these routine steps:
- To begin, our root canal specialist will provide you with either a sedative or numbing agent, such as a local anesthetic (freezing).
- Next, the affected tooth will be isolated with a rubber dental dam, secluding the tooth from saliva and bacteria for the duration of the treatment.
- The dentist will then form an opening in the crown of the tooth to reach the infected area of the root canal system.
- Then, the dentist will utilize specialized tools to clean and remove the injured pulp from the canal system.
- Once cleaned and shaped, the canal is filled and sealed.
- A follow-up visit may be required to replace the seal with a permanent filling or crown.
- Medication may be prescribed to help fight any bacteria and improve the infection and healing.
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The Advantages of Root Canal Treatment
Once you’ve decided to seek root canal therapy, you will reap the benefits of the procedure.
- Provides Pain Relief: You may have heard in the past that root canals are the epitome of pain and discomfort, but in fact, it’s the opposite, as you will feel immense relief from the pain caused by the infected abscess once the root canal is performed.
- Stops Infection: Infection, rather than pain, is a more dire symptom to treat regarding your teeth. The bacteria that grows in your mouth can spread, causing severe damage to other parts of your body, including the heart, lungs, brain and sinuses.
- Saves the Tooth: A significant benefit of this procedure is to stop the tooth from being removed altogether. You preserve the natural tooth, prevent gaps resulting in misalignment and malocclusion, and stop the need for artificial replacements.
After a Root Canal: Things to Consider
Finishing all prescribed medicine post-root canal therapy is essential to prevent complications. It is common for your tooth/teeth to be tender for a short duration following the appointment, approximately 1-2 weeks.
Intense pain and bad swelling are not, however, common. If you are experiencing extreme discomfort, please contact us immediately for a follow-up.
Risks Associated with Root Canal Therapy
Root canal procedures are considered safe and effective, with an impressive success rate of about 98%, but it’s not without its risks and complications.
- Discolouration: Since the root canal removes the living portion of the tooth, it alters the blood flow, and can result in tooth discolouration. This can be easily addressed with crowning or veneers.
- Sinus Congestion: Everything in the body is connected, especially the ears, nose and throat and the sinuses surrounding them. A common risk with root canals is the possibility that sinus problems can arise.
Some leakage between the root canal and sinuses can result in sinus congestion and headaches. A telltale sign of this is a salty taste lingering in the mouth. While this is most likely temporary, consult with us if it persists. - Reinfection: This can occur if any of the infected matter is left in the canal, or the sealing is ineffective or begins to erode. Any cracking or faults in the seal can result in bacteria entering and reinfection reoccurring.
- Cracked Teeth: Any alteration to the natural tooth weakens the structure. With the living part of the tooth essentially dying, the tooth can become brittle. A crown can ensure a stronger tooth post-canal.
- Temporary Pain: Pain can remain for 1-2 weeks after the procedure, but it lessens and should disappear quickly. The procedure itself is without much pain as the patient is either sedated or local freezing is applied to remove any painful sensation.
At Bayview Lonsdale Dentist, we make sure the patient is comfortable throughout this procedure.
*Please advise us of any medication or anesthetic allergies.
While there are common and often temporary risks, root canal benefits routinely outweigh the risks.
Choose Bayview Lonsdale Dentist for Root Canal Treatment in Vancouver
If you still have questions about this procedure or wish to book an appointment with one of our expert dentists, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly staff today.
We are conveniently located at the corner of Lonsdale and 11th Street East, just west of St. Andrews Park. We offer free parking, multilingual staff, and extended hours to suit your busy life.
Root Canal Treatment FAQs
Why is the root canal needed?
What should I expect after a root canal treatment?
How much do root canals cost?
- One-$519.
- Two-$661
- Three-$925
- Four or more- $1017