Root CanalA root canal is a restorative process that removes damaged pulp from your tooth. The pulp consists of the connective tissues, nerves, and blood vessels that aid in tooth growth. After pulp removal, the tooth inside is cleaned, disinfected, filled, and sealed. The treatment procedure is painless and prevents tooth loss. In most cases, the pain doesn't come from the treatment but from the infection. Before the process starts, your dentist will numb the tooth and the area around with anesthesia to relieve the pain. You will have some tenderness after the treatment, though over-the-counter medicines can alleviate it. Visit RJ Dental to schedule an appointment for a root canal. Who Needs A Root Canal?A root canal is performed on patients with injured, infected, or inflamed pulp. It is also ideal for those with a cracked tooth, deep cavity, or people with issues from previous fillings. What usually happens is that the bacteria destroy the pulp, get into the root openings, and infect the bone. The infection weakens the bone and breaks it down. The ligaments surrounding the tooth will start swelling, loosening the tooth. If left untreated, the infection spreads and can lead to tooth extraction if not treated in time. Patients with injured pulp will become sensitive to low and high temperatures when they consume hot or cold drinks. If you feel severe pain while biting or chewing, you likely need a root canal. People with tender or swollen gums, pimples on the gums, and darkening gums require root canal treatment. Ensure you see a dentist when you have a toothache to allow your doctor to examine your teeth and identify any problem that might be affecting you. How is Root Canal Performed?The dentist will first inject an anesthetic into the gums surrounding the affected tooth. The anesthetic will help you not to feel pain during the procedure. After numbing the tooth, the dentist will create a tiny opening in the tooth top. Your dentist will remove the damaged or injured pulp using files. After removing the pulp, your dentist may cover the affected area with an antibiotic to treat infection completely and avoid reinfection. The dentist will clean and disinfect the canals. A rubber-like material or a sealer paste fills and seals the tooth. Your dentist will then close the tiny opening in the tooth using soft temporary material, which prevents the canals from saliva damage. You will return to see our dentist a few days after your root canal. Your doctor will conduct tests to ensure there is no infection around the affected tooth. Please do not use the damaged tooth to chew until it is filled permanently. Call RJ Dental today at (551) 369-2001 to book your root canal appointment. |