Root Canals
What are Root Canals?
A root canal involves removal of the inner pulp of a tooth. The pulp houses the blood supply and nerves specific for keeping the tooth vital and healthy. Decay that has been able to reach the pulp as well as a crack in the tooth that’s left the pulp exposed will require a complete root canal. Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures performed in offices.
Why are Root Canals needed?
Normally, a root canal is needed when a tooth becomes severely decayed. The decay gets to the point of reaching the pulp, causing severe pain and sensitivity to both cold and hot temperature extremes. If you’ve broken or cracked a tooth, the pulp may have been exposed. Most often, a tooth that needs a root canal will be painful and sensitive.
Who is a candidate for Root Canals?
A typical dental examination can help us to identify a tooth that needs a root canal. In some cases, an x-ray is needed to further identify the problem before performing a root canal. If you need a root canal, it’s important to have the procedure done as soon as possible. This prevents further damage to the tooth and the eventual need for an extraction.
What happens during the procedure for Root Canals?
We will administer a local anesthetic that numbs the area. We then isolate the tooth with a rubber dental dam. The decay is removed from the tooth and the pulp taken out. The canals of the roots will be thoroughly cleaned and filled with medicated packing material. The hole in the tooth is then filled with composite resin filling material and cured into place. The root canal is finished after the dental dam has been removed. You can expect the root canal to take about an hour in our office, and it can be done at your earliest convenience.
If you think you might need a root canal and want to come in for a consultation, call us today and we will get you in as soon as possible.
