Are you suffering from severe pain in your teeth? It can be due to damaged pulp that needs to be removed immediately to prevent loss. We provide you with the Root Canal Service to eliminate the pain caused due to the diseased and impacted teeth.  

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal treatment is a procedure that involves eliminating the soft center of the tooth, the pulp. It contains connective tissues, blood vessels, and nerves that provide teeth nutrients to grow. Our experienced general dentists or endodontists perform this treatment.

When Do We Need A Root Canal Treatment?

You might require root canal treatment when the nerve of your tooth is severely impacted. Our tooth contains pulp that comprises nerves, blood vessels, and tissues. If the impacted teeth are left untreated, bacteria enter the root canal and cause infection on the nerve. When it becomes severe, it forms an abscess inside the mouth, thereby leading to pain or discomfort from the tooth. In such a scenario, you might require a root canal treatment.

Procedure Involved In Root Canal Treatment

• We perform root canal procedures in our dental office. When you arrive for the appointment, our technician will take you to the treatment room when you arrive for the appointment. Then, one of our experienced dentists will begin the procedure by using the following steps:
• First, our dentist will use a small amount of numbing medication in the gums around the affected area. Then, a local anesthetic will be injected into the gums, causing you to feel a burning sensation for a while. Don’t Worry! You will remain awake during the entire procedure; it will only prevent you from feeling any pain.
• Then, they will make a small hole and remove the damaged pulp from the tooth. After successful removal, we use topical antibiotics to rid the tooth of infection and prevent reinfection after successful removal.
• We will clean the canals and disinfect them and later fill and seal the area with a sealer paste and rubber-like material called gutta-percha.  Lastly, we will fill the opening with a soft temporary material, which will be replaced after the permanent filling is made.

I Have A Painful Tooth

Reasons for Needing a Root Canal

• Severe Tooth Decay: When tooth decay penetrates the outer enamel and dentin layers, it can reach the pulp, causing infection and pain. A root canal removes this infected pulp to save the tooth.
• Infection or Abscess: Bacterial infections can lead to the formation of an abscess (a pocket of pus) at the root of the tooth, resulting in intense pain and swelling. A root canal eliminates the infection and relieves symptoms.
• Trauma or Injury: A fracture or injury to a tooth can damage the pulp, leading to inflammation or infection. Root canal treatment addresses the damage and protects the tooth.
• Repeated Dental Procedures: Teeth undergoing multiple restorations may become weakened and more susceptible to pulp damage. A root canal may be necessary to preserve the tooth’s integrity.
• Extreme Sensitivity: If a tooth becomes overly sensitive to hot or cold temperatures and the sensitivity lingers, it may indicate pulp damage or infection, warranting a root canal.

Benefits of a Root Canal

• Pain Relief: One of the most immediate benefits is relief from the intense pain associated with infected or damaged pulp. The procedure alleviates discomfort and allows you to return to normal activities.
• Tooth Preservation: A root canal allows you to save your natural tooth instead of extracting it. Keeping your tooth is essential for maintaining proper alignment and bite function.
• Improved Oral Health: Root canal therapy addresses infection and decay and prevents the spread of bacteria to adjacent teeth and tissues, promoting overall oral health.
• Functionality: After the procedure, the treated tooth can function like any other tooth, allowing for normal chewing and speaking.
• Long-lasting Solution: With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can last many years, often a lifetime, making it a durable option compared to tooth extraction and replacement options like implants.
• Cost-effective: Saving a natural tooth through a root canal can be more cost-effective in the long run compared to the expenses associated with extraction and subsequent replacement options like bridges or implants.
• Aesthetics: After a root canal, the tooth can be restored with a crown or filling that matches the surrounding teeth, preserving your smile’s appearance.

In summary, root canals are a critical procedure for preserving dental health, relieving pain, and maintaining the functionality and aesthetics of natural teeth.

FAQ

1. What is a root canal, and why is it needed?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage to the pulp (the innermost part) of a tooth. It is needed when the pulp becomes infected due to severe decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. The procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further issues.

2. Does a root canal hurt?
The root canal procedure is performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring that you don’t feel pain during the treatment. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity afterward, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

3. How long does a root canal take?
The duration of a root canal procedure can vary depending on the complexity of the case. Generally, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour for a straightforward root canal. More complicated cases may require multiple visits.

4. What happens after a root canal?
After a root canal, you may experience some tenderness or sensitivity in the treated area for a few days. Your dentist will likely recommend pain relievers and may suggest avoiding hard foods until the tooth is fully restored with a crown or filling. Regular follow-up appointments will ensure the tooth heals properly.

5. Can a tooth still get infected after a root canal?
While root canals are highly successful in treating infection, it is still possible for a tooth to become reinfected. This can occur due to various reasons, such as incomplete removal of the infected tissue, new decay, or trauma. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene can help minimize this risk.

If you are feeling severe pain and discomfort, do consider visiting our dentist Dr. Le, for consultation and root canal treatment altogether at TruCare Dental now! Please contact us to make an appointment.