Root Canals

What are Root Canals?

A root canal is a procedure that involves removing the inner pulp of a tooth that has become infected. The inner pulp is in the center of your tooth and houses the nerves and blood vessels of the tooth, which can cause pain and infection when exposed. Root canals help to preserve a tooth that has become severely decayed or compromised and help to restore it to its natural state as best as possible. The procedure is done quickly and efficiently right in our office.

Why do you need Root Canals?

Root canals may be needed if a tooth has become compromised and the inner pulp has become exposed and infected. In order to determine if you need a root canal, an exam and x-rays will be needed. There are several reasons why a root canal may be required:

• A tooth has become severely decayed
• There is a severe infection present in the tooth
• A tooth has broken or fractured and has exposed the inner pulp
• You are experiencing severe pain in one specific tooth

What makes you a good candidate for Root Canals?

Root canals are ideal for most patients who have severe damage to the tooth and want to restore the natural tooth as best as possible. Someone who has severe decay or has a pulp that has been exposed will benefit from a root canal. Likewise, root canals help to get rid of the pain that you might be experiencing because the procedure removes the infected nerves. Root canals are essential in getting rid of and preventing tooth-related infections.

What happens during the procedure for Root Canals?

The root canal procedure is relatively straightforward and quick. First, the area will be numbed for your comfort and separated from the rest of the mouth using a rubber dental dam to keep the tooth and exposed area clean. The tooth is drilled to expose the pulp and specialized instruments are used to remove the pulp, bacteria that has accumulated, and the decayed nerve tissue from the tooth.

 Next, the canals of the tooth will be cleaned thoroughly, and the tooth will be sealed with a medicated material to prevent any further bacteria and decay from entering that tooth. Most patients who have a root canal done will eventually need a crown placed on the tooth. The crown will be created based off impressions that have been taken. Once your tooth has been properly cleaned and sealed and your crown has been placed, you will once again have a tooth with restored function and appearance. You will be sent home with aftercare instructions on how to take care of the tooth to promote healing.

If you think you may need a root canal or would like to inquire more about this procedure, contact our office so that we can better assist you.