Root Canal

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a tooth-saving treatment that removes the pulp inside your tooth chamber. Pulp is a soft tissue in the center of your tooth and contains nerves and blood vessels. While pulp is vital for your tooth development, it no longer serves a long-term purpose once your teeth reach full maturity.

Pulp can become damaged or infected from deep decay or a severe dental injury. Once it does, it can cause severe pain. Damaged pulp also increases the risk of infection in your surrounding teeth. Without treatment, an infection can even reach your bloodstream.

By removing the pulp and replacing it with a biocompatible material, your provider can preserve your tooth health and function. Early intervention may even eliminate the need to extract the tooth.

What are the signs that I need a root canal?

Common signs you need a root canal include:

• Pain when chewing
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Fever
• Swelling
• Tooth discoloration
• Loose tooth

An infected tooth can also develop an abscess. This pus-filled sac appears as a small pimple-like bump next to your tooth. If the abscess ruptures, it can cause severe pain. The bacteria inside the abscess can even spread to other areas of your body once it invades your bloodstream.

What happens during a root canal?

Before beginning the procedure, your provider administers an anesthetic to keep you comfortable and pain-free. 

Next, they create a small access hole in the center of your tooth and use small dental instruments to remove the pulp. To ensure there is no leftover bacteria, your provider cleans and disinfects the tooth chamber.

Finally, your provider replaces the pulp with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and seals the access hole. They may place a filling to protect your tooth from damage.

What can I expect after a root canal?

Protecting your tooth after a root canal is essential to seal out bacteria and prevent decay. To protect your vulnerable tooth, your provider may recommend a dental crown. This tooth-shaped cap fits over the visible portion of your tooth to restore its shape, size, and color and protect against damage.

To see if you’re a candidate for root canal therapy, make an appointment at Advanced Dentistry by calling the office or booking online today.

We treat patients for dental implants, full mouth rehab, crowns, dental cleanings, implant supported dentures, and more. We accept most PPO Dental insurance. Call us to book your appointment today.

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