Root canal therapy can help repair or save teeth that have tooth decay or are infected. While many people are often nervous about getting a root canal, usually the pain and discomfort that leads up to it are more uncomfortable.
What Are The Stages Of Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy restores oral health by removing the nerve of the tooth causing you pain. The stages of root canal therapy are as follows:
Prepare the Area
Firstly, the area will be benumbed and a dental dam is placed in the mouth to protect the other teeth during treatment.
Cleaning the Roots
Your dentist will drill through the tooth to the root canal and pulp chamber where he will clean and disinfect the area thoroughly to treat any infection.
Shaping the Canals
Next, the canals are shaped to receive a filling material. Before the filling process, a second thorough cleaning is done to ensure all debris and infection are removed.
Filling the Canals
Gutta-percha, a rubber-like material, is used to fill the canals. After filling them, heat is used to compress the material so it fits correctly ensuring that bacteria cannot enter the tooth. Adhesive cement is later used to completely seal the canals.
Closing the Tooth
Next, the hole made to access the canal and pulp is sealed – a post may also be added to strengthen a severely damaged tooth that cannot support a dental restoration on its own.
Healing
If the tooth was infected, antibiotics are prescribed to make sure the infection is completely resolved.
Adding the Crown
If root canal therapy was done on a severely damaged tooth or one found in the back of the mouth, you will probably need a crown. A custom mold will be made and sent to a dental lab for creation.
What Are Some Signs That You Need Root Canal Therapy?
Symptoms that indicate you may need root canal therapy include:
- Discolored tooth
- Tooth sensitivity that lasts for a long time
- Tooth pain, especially when you’re biting or chewing
- Pimple along the gum line
While these are some symptoms that may signal you need this procedure, sometimes there are none at all so it’s always important to schedule regular dental exams and cleanings to make sure you maintain good oral health.
Are There Any Alternatives to Root Canal Therapy?
Generally, the only alternative is tooth extraction. However, it is recommended that you try and save the tooth as extraction can often lead to jawbone loss, which can shift your remaining teeth.
Restore Oral Health With Root Canal Therapy
When you suspect that you need root canal therapy it’s important that you visit a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further infection or damage to your tooth. Eriks Dental Group is a dental office located in Boynton Beach, give us a call today to schedule an appointment at 561-733-4004.