Root Canals
What are Root Canals?
A root canal is a type of procedure that involves completely removing the inner pulp from a tooth. When this pulp becomes infected or exposed, it will need to be taken out. When you need a root canal, you’ll typically feel severe toothache and pain with increased sensitivity to hot and cold liquids. Root canals help to preserve the tooth while eliminating this pain, preventing the need for an extraction.
Why would a Root Canal be needed?
The reason you may need a root canal is because you have a cavity that was ignored for too long. The decay was able to reach to the inner portion of the tooth, infecting the pulp. If a tooth has broken or cracked severely, it may expose the pulp, causing pain and sensitivity. In either case, the pulp has to be removed via a root canal.
Who is a candidate for a Root Canal?
We can examine your teeth to determine if you’ll need a root canal. Most patients who require this procedure will know that it’s needed because of the hypersensitivity and pain involved. However, it is possible to need a root canal without having any pain involved. If you need a root canal, it’s important to come in for the procedure so that an abscess or infection is prevented.
What happens during the Root Canal process?
The procedure begins with a typical local anesthetic that is administered into the area. We will then isolate the tooth with a rubber dental dam to keep it protected from bacteria inside of the mouth. The decay as well as the pulp is removed from the tooth. The canals of the roots are carefully and thoroughly scraped clean. They are then filled with a special medicated material that is known as gutta-percha. Once this is done, we’ll fill the tooth with composite resin and remove the dental dam.
If you think you may need a root canal, call our office today so that we can get you in as soon as possible. Our low wait times and personable one-on-one approach to care can help you to receive customized dental care.