Root Canals
Revitalize Your Smile
A root canal treatment is a procedure that can help alleviate any pain experienced from a decayed or damaged tooth, and can even save it. Root canals can also prevent the need for more extensive dental work in the future.
By removing decay and bacteria from the inner tooth, your dentist can help stop the spread of infection and restore the healthy portion of the tooth.
Most patients who undergo root canals experience little or no discomfort or pain and end up with a fully restored tooth.
The Root Canal Procedure
A root canal is a dental procedure in which the dentist removes infected or damaged tissues, such as blood vessels and nerves, from the inside of a tooth. If left untreated, damaged teeth can die and may need to be extracted.
During the root canal, your dentist will start by removing the diseased tissue from the tooth. They will then clean and disinfect the inner chamber and fill it with medicated material to prevent an infection. Finally, the tooth is usually covered with a dental restoration, such as a dental crown, to complete the procedure.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
Knowing the signs that you may need a root canal can help save your tooth. If you notify your dentist early enough, they can perform a root canal before the tooth requires an extraction. You may require a root canal if you've been experiencing:
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Severe toothache pain
- Swelling and/or tenderness