Dental Health and Root Canals
In the past, if you had a tooth with a diseased nerve, you would probably lose that tooth. Today, with a special dental procedure called root canal treatment, your tooth can be saved.
Root canals are a relatively simple procedure involving one to three office visits. Best of all, having a root canal when necessary can save your tooth and your smile!
What is the purpose of a root canal?
A tooth’s nerve is not vitally important to its health and function after the tooth has emerged through the gums. Its only function is sensory: to convey the sensation of hot or cold. The presence or absence of a nerve will not affect the day-to-day functioning of the tooth.
When a tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, bacteria can enter the pulp tissue and germs can cause an infection inside. If left untreated, an abscess may form. If the infected tissue is not removed, pain and swelling can result.
This can not only injure your jawbones, but it is detrimental to your overall health. Without the proper treatment, your tooth may have to be removed.
What are the signs that a root canal is needed?
Teeth that require root canal therapy are not always painful. However, signs you may need a root canal include severe toothache, pain upon chewing or application of pressure, prolonged sensitivity or pain in response to hot and cold temperatures, a dark discoloration of the tooth, and swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact our office.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment involves one to three visits. During treatment, a general dentist or endodontist (a dentist who specializes in problems with the nerves of the teeth) removes the affected tissue. Next, the interior of the tooth will be cleaned and sealed.
Finally, the tooth is filled with a dental composite. If your tooth had extensive decay, the doctor may suggest placing a crown to strengthen and protect the tooth from breakage. As long as you continue to care for your teeth and gums with regular brushing, flossing, and checkups, your restored tooth can last a lifetime.
Gentle Root Canal Therapy Saves Teeth
Endodontic therapy, also known as a root canal, is a relatively painless treatment which aims at clearing infection as well as protecting the tooth from subsequent infections.
When a tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, bacteria can enter the pulp tissue and germs can cause infection. If left untreated, an abscess may form. If the infected tissue is not removed, pain and swelling can result.
This not only puts your jawbones at risk for injury, but it is also detrimental to your overall health. Without the proper treatment, your tooth may have to be removed.
Teeth that require endodontic therapy are not always painful. However, signs you may need a root canal include:
- Severe toothache
- Pain upon chewing or application of pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
- Dark discoloration of the tooth
- Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
What Happens During Endodontic Therapy?
Root canal treatment involves one to three visits, during which Dr. Bally removes the affected tissue. After the tissue is removed, the interior of the tooth will be cleaned and sealed.
Finally, the tooth is filled with a dental composite. If your tooth had extensive decay, we may suggest placing a crown to strengthen and protect the tooth from breakage. As long as you continue to care for your teeth and gums with regular brushing, flossing, and checkups, your restored tooth can last a lifetime.
Most teeth can be saved by endodontic therapy. However, tooth extraction may be necessary if:
- Roots are severely fractured
- The tooth does not have adequate bone support
- The tooth cannot be restored
- Root canals are not accessible
Endodontic therapy is intended to help save your tooth from extraction. Missing teeth can make you self-conscious, affect your ability to bite and chew, cause other healthy teeth to shift, and have a negative impact on your overall health.
By choosing to receive endodontic therapy, you are choosing to keep your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Explore Our Helpful Video Guides
Progression of Decay
This video demonstrates how tooth decay progresses over time and what signs to look for. Learn how early detection can help prevent more severe damage and ensure effective treatment.
Elective Root Canal
Learn about the steps involved in an elective root canal procedure. This video explains when a root canal is necessary and how it can save a tooth from extraction, ensuring long-term dental health.
Post-Operative Instructions for a Root Canal
After a root canal, proper care is essential. This video provides post-operative instructions to help with healing, minimize discomfort, and ensure your tooth remains healthy.