A natural tooth has two main parts: the root beneath the gum line and the crown above it. Inside the crown and root lies the root canal, which contains several vital components, including the pulp, which contains blood vessels and nerve tissue. Each part plays a crucial role in maintaining the tooth’s health. For instance, the pulp nourishes the tooth, keeping it healthy and alive, while the nerve tissue senses different temperatures and causes dental pain. According to an experienced endodontist in downtown Toronto, root canal therapy is a vital surgical procedure that involves removing injured or dead tissue within the tooth to preserve its health. Unfortunately, there are several misconceptions surrounding this restorative procedure, such as the belief that it causes pain and discomfort. However, this is not the case, and root canal therapy is an effective and safe way to restore and save a damaged or infected tooth. It is essential to understand the facts about root canal therapy, and this article will provide you with all the essential information you need to know.

Is Endodontics a Type of Oral Surgery?

Root canal therapy is a common oral surgery that raises many questions, such as how much pain to expect during and after the procedure. However, patients can rest assured that they will be comfortable during the surgery as long as they ensure their healthcare providers have the necessary experience and expertise to perform the procedure. Moreover, the pain experienced during the procedure is often caused by the infected areas inside the teeth that the treatment aims to remove, so patients can expect relief from pain once the damaged parts are removed.

Root canal therapy is necessary for individuals with infected areas within their teeth that cannot heal on their own. Without treatment, the infected sites can lead to various complications, including the spread of infection, abscess formation, and tooth loss. Therefore, it is crucial to seek prompt treatment from a dentist who can assess the severity of the infection and recommend the appropriate course of action, including root canal therapy, to prevent further damage and preserve the tooth’s health.

General dentists and endodontists often work together to provide the best possible dental care for their patients. Both types of dentists aim to treat dental problems with minimal pain and discomfort for the patient. Patients may initially visit a general dentist, who will refer them to an endodontist for more specialized treatment, especially in cases involving root canal problems or other complex procedures. Referral to an endodontist by a general dentist is a testament to the quality of care the patient will receive.

While endodontists are more experienced in performing root canals than general dentists, both types of dentists can provide quality care depending on the patient’s needs and condition. General dentists can perform many routine dental procedures and refer patients to specialists like endodontists as needed. Ultimately, the choice of dentist depends on the patient’s condition, the complexity of the procedure, and the dentist’s experience and expertise in performing the procedure.