During a root canal, a dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, cleans and shapes each root canal with fine instruments, fills the space with a biocompatible material, and seals the tooth before placing a protective crown. The procedure typically takes one to two appointments of 60 to 90 minutes each, is performed under local anesthetic so you feel pressure but not pain, and saves the natural tooth from extraction. Most patients are surprised by how routine and manageable the experience is compared to what they expected.
TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, the paired hinge joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull just in front of each ear. A TMJ disorder is any condition that causes pain or dysfunction in these joints and the surrounding muscles, producing symptoms that most commonly include jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds during movement, headaches, and difficulty fully opening or closing the mouth.
Have you ever wondered why dentists sometimes save a tooth and other times remove it completely? The distinction lies in how each procedure treats the problem. Understanding these differences helps patients make informed decisions about their oral health.
Sticky, hard, and sugary foods can damage your dental crown, and a temporary crown is the most likely to come off. Caramel, ice, popcorn kernels, and a whole apple are common culprits. A final crown is stronger, and it can still chip or let decay start at the edge if those habits continue.
Imagine walking into a dental clinic and instantly feeling your heartbeat quicken. You're not alone. Dental anxiety is a prevalent condition, affecting a large portion of adults and children across Canada and the United States.
From simple extractions to more involved operations, dental surgery consists of a range of treatments meant to solve oral health problems. Whether you're getting ready for gum surgery, dental implants, or wisdom teeth removal, it's important to know what is dental surgery and what to expect all through the procedure.