Saving Your Tooth Means Saving Your Smile
A root canal removes the infected part of your tooth so it doesn't spread to the healthy parts.
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal - or endodontic treatment - is a common dental procedure that removes the infected parts of your tooth, saving your tooth from being removed altogether.
The area of the tooth that gets infected is referred to as the pulp, which is the soft tissue at the center of the tooth consisting of blood vessels, nerves, and lymph tissues. The infected pulp at the center of the tooth is, unfortunately, unable to heal itself and needs to be removed in order to save the tooth.
If the infected pulp is not removed, the entire tooth needs to be removed. Holes in your mouth negatively impact the function and aesthetics of your other teeth and risk further damage or additional treatments like dental implants or dental bridges.
Root canals have gained a bad reputation and are one of the most feared dental procedures. But it's not like that anymore, the procedure has come a long way.
We only use advanced technology to make root canal procedures safe, quick, and painless. A root canal will only reduce tooth pain, not cause it.
How Do You Know If You Need A Root Canal?
Several warning signs and symptoms may indicate the need for a root canal. However, it’s important to remember that many of these same signs could mean other dental issues. Your dentist will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pain and suggest the appropriate treatment.
Signs you may need a root canal include:
- Experiencing significant pain from chewing and other activities
- Swelling & inflammation
- Temperature sensitivity
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Abscess (infection) on the gums
Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, which is why it’s important to schedule regular dental checkups and cleaning appointments with your dentist.
How A Root Canal Is Performed
Once your dentist determines that a root canal is necessary, the tooth’s infected pulp is cleaned out. We know, sounds a bit unpleasant. However you’ll be given a local anesthetic to numb the area prior to treatment, to minimize, and even eliminate the pain.
After cleaning, the remaining tooth is decontaminated with antiseptic, and the hole is filled with a soft rubber-like material and the top sealed with an adhesive.
Removing the pulp means the tooth is technically dead as all nerves have been removed. The root canal has saved the tooth from being pulled, but because it’s no longer alive, its structure is compromised.
To keep the tooth from further decay and damage, a dental crown is placed on top to strengthen the tooth and protect it from chewing and other types of impact.
How Do You Know If You Need A Root Canal?
Several warning signs and symptoms may indicate the need for a root canal. However, it’s important to remember that many of these same signs could mean other dental issues. Your dentist will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pain and suggest the appropriate treatment.
Signs you may need a root canal include:
- Experiencing significant pain from chewing and other activities
- Swelling & inflammation
- Temperature sensitivity
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Abscess (infection) on the gums
Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, which is why it’s important to schedule regular dental checkups and cleaning appointments with your dentist.
How A Root Canal Is Performed
Once your dentist determines that a root canal is necessary, the tooth’s infected pulp is cleaned out. We know, sounds a bit unpleasant. However you’ll be given a local anesthetic to numb the area prior to treatment, to minimize, and even eliminate the pain.
After cleaning, the remaining tooth is decontaminated with antiseptic, and the hole is filled with a soft rubber-like material and the top sealed with an adhesive.
Removing the pulp means the tooth is technically dead as all nerves have been removed. The root canal has saved the tooth from being pulled, but because it’s no longer alive, its structure is compromised.
To keep the tooth from further decay and damage, a dental crown is placed on top to strengthen the tooth and protect it from chewing and other types of impact.
How Long Does A Root Canal Last?
A root canal can last a lifetime if proper dental care is practiced. Having the procedure means keeping all of the teeth in your mouth for a happier and healthier smile. Good oral hygiene involves:
- Brushing your teeth twice per day
- Flossing daily
- Using toothpaste with fluoride
- Limiting sugary foods, drinks
- If you smoke, quit
At Revive Dental, preserving your healthy smile is our top priority. Our dentists are world-renowned educators and practitioners with advanced training to provide you with only the highest quality care possible. Call us today to schedule your consultation.
