Wellington Office:
Saving Your Tooth, Restoring Your Smile
In the past, a tooth with a damaged or infected nerve often meant that tooth would be lost. Today, thanks to root canal treatment, it's possible to save your tooth and maintain your smile.
Root canal procedures are relatively simple, typically requiring one to three office visits, and can be a lifesaver for your tooth, sparing you the need for extraction.
What is the Purpose of a Root Canal
Once a tooth has fully erupted through the gums, the nerve inside is no longer essential for the tooth’s function. Its only role is to sense temperature changes, like hot or cold. Therefore, the tooth can still function normally without a nerve.
When a tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, bacteria can enter the pulp tissue, leading to an infection. If left untreated, this can cause an abscess, resulting in severe pain, swelling, and potential damage to the surrounding jawbones and overall health. Root canal treatment removes the infected tissue and helps restore the tooth to its healthy state.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Not all teeth requiring a root canal will cause pain, but here are some common signs that treatment may be necessary:
- Severe toothache
- Pain when chewing or applying pressure
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Dark discoloration of the tooth
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums around the tooth
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, contact our office for an evaluation.
What Happens During a Root Canal
Root canal treatment is typically done over one to three visits. During the procedure:
- The affected tissue inside the tooth is removed.
- The interior of the tooth is cleaned and sealed to prevent further infection.
- The tooth is then filled with a dental composite.
If there’s significant decay, your dentist may recommend placing a crown over the tooth to provide additional strength and protect it from further damage. With proper care, your restored tooth can last a lifetime.
Saving Your Tooth and Smile
Endodontic therapy, commonly known as a root canal, is a highly effective and relatively painless treatment designed to clear infections from the pulp (the soft tissue inside your tooth) and protect the tooth from future infections.
What Happens During Endodontic Therapy?
Root canal treatment typically involves one to three visits. During the procedure:
- Removal of infected tissue: Modern Dental Smiles will carefully remove the infected pulp from the tooth.
- Cleaning and sealing: The interior of the tooth is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent future infections.
- Filling and restoration: The tooth is filled with a dental composite. If the tooth has extensive decay, a crown may be placed to restore its strength and prevent breakage.
With proper care, including regular brushing, flossing, and checkups, your treated tooth can last a lifetime.
Why Choose Endodontic Therapy?
By opting for endodontic therapy, you can avoid tooth extraction and preserve your natural tooth. Missing teeth can impact your confidence, ability to chew properly, and the alignment of your other teeth, not to mention your overall oral health. Choosing a root canal helps you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile 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.