ROOT CANALS

Root canal therapy refers to the cleansing and procedure on a severely infected or damaged tooth. The soft inside of the tooth containing blood vessels and nerves is called the pulp. When a tooth has a sizable cavity or crack, bacteria can seep into the tooth. This can result in the pulp eventually becoming infected and consequently dying. Left without remedy, the problem can create swelling and pain in the mouth and jaw. In major cases, the tooth may need to be extracted.

Root Canal Symptoms

There are many symptoms that could indicate the need for root canal therapy. The following issues could be sign that infection has spread the root of your tooth. However, these are just a guideline. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it important to book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. The earlier you address potential dental problems, the greater chance the dentist has of taking care of your teeth.

Severe tooth pain
Sensitivity to cold and hot that lingers after exposure
Darkening of the tooth enamel
Swelling of the gums around the tooth
An abscess or large pimple near the tooth

What To Expect During A Root Canal

There is a general belief that root canals are quite painful. This leads to many people avoiding having them done, which can lead to the infection becoming even worse in the tooth. If the infection gets too severe, the dentist may not have an option but to extract the tooth. The truth is most dental patients say that a root canal is no more unpleasant than having dental fillings done. If the dentist suggests for you to have root canal therapy, make it a goal to have it done as swiftly as possible.

The first step of root canal therapy is making the patient relaxed. This is accomplished through the use of local anesthetic. Comparable to dental fillings, the dentist will start by applying a numbing gel to the gums. As soon as the gel has time to take effect, anesthetic is administered into the gums to block pain receptors. Be sure to notify your dentist if you start to feel pain during the course of the treatment.

Then, the pulpectomy is executed. The dentist will create an opening in the tooth at the crown to achieve entry to the inside of the tooth. Through this opening, they will remove the infected pulp from the tooth. Once removed, special files are used to clear out and widen the canals in preparation to be filled. Shortly after the tooth is prepared for filling, the inside of the tooth can be cleaned and disinfected.

The roots and tooth cavity may be filled with either short-term or permanent filler. Temporary filler is chosen to let the swelling in the cells decrease, and stays in effect somewhere around a week. Teeth that are given temporary filler are regularly covered with a cap until the follow up to fill it permanently. Once the permanent filler is set, the tooth will be sealed off.
Post Treatment Care

Root canal therapy is extremely successful anytime the tooth is restored properly. Your dentist may book a follow up visit a few weeks after the treatment to monitor the recovery process. It is imperative that the patient practice great oral health following the procedure. Cleaning your teeth and dental flossing daily are the best way to maintain a healthy mouth at home. Continuously keep your routine dental visits, because your dentist can use that time to follow up on the treated teeth.