A “root canal” is when the dentist removes dead or damaged pulpal nerve tissue from within the tooth. Through the use of oxidative agents, chelating agents, and biocompatible antimicrobials, the tooth is cleaned from the inside.

We use Calcium Hydroxide, which lowers the pH in the treatment area to kill toxin producing bacteria and stimulate natural bone growth.

The canal space is then filled with bioactive glass Resilon, which is proven to be nontoxic, non-mutagenic, and biocompatible.

Often, a root canal treated tooth requires a dental crown to seal the root canal and to strengthen the tooth so it does not break in the future.

Does a root canal hurt?

We always numb the tooth completely with local anaesthetic before starting. We also provide oral conscious sedation free-of-charge for severely anxious patients.

Getting a root canal is just like any other dental procedure in this regard. Often times, patients fall asleep during the procedure!

VIDEO: ROOT CANAL PROCEDURE

NO! As with cavities, gum disease, and other dental damage, an irritated and abscessed tooth nerve is a serious problem that requires professional dental treatment.

Home remedies or otherwise delaying essential dental treatment only allows problems to worsen, spread, and puts your whole health at risk.

Is a root canal harmful to whole health?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that root canals are harmful. We perform root canals because they solve a root cause and are essential avoiding negative whole health outcomes. Learn more about how we practice safe whole health dentistry.

Are there any safe alternatives to a root canal?

Yes! As an alternative, the whole tooth can be extracted and replaced with a dental implant.

To prevent nerve pain and avoid root canals, practice good preventative dental care habits including regular dental hygiene visits.

Every healthy tooth has delicate pulpal tissue in the centre. When exposed by tooth decay or damage, it becomes irritated and painful. Eventually, it dies and causes serious infection.

What is the function of the pulpal tissue in a tooth?

The pulpal tissue contains nerves and blood vessels that are essential in the formation and development of the tooth.

The nerve tissue has a sensory function, while the blood vessels keep the tooth’s organic enamel and dentin mineralized and supplied with nutrients.

How does the nerve in a tooth become irritated and painful?

Under normal circumstances the nerve in a tooth remains quiet. When the nerve is irritated or exposed by extreme pressure, temperature, cracks, or advanced decay it will respond with a painful sensation.

If the nerve in your tooth is persistently irritated or exposed, it can become damaged beyond repair. Then it begins to hurt constantly — waking you up at night or throbbing for several minutes after a cold drink.

What happens when the nerve in a tooth dies?

Eventually, the nerve is killed by the process of decay and irritation. Once the nerve is totally dead, it rots from within and develops into an infection (abscess).

The abscess makes the gums around the tooth swell up, pus to form, and causes bad breath. It can also be quite painful.

At this point, a root canal is the only way to make the tooth stop hurting and prevent further complications. It is necessary to stop the pain, clean the abscessed infection, and attempt to save the remaining tooth.