Why Do I Need a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy continues to save millions of teeth worldwide each year. Despite its reputation and the fear it invokes, the relatively comfortable procedure is comparable to having a tooth filled. In fact, root canal therapy relieves tooth pain rather than causing it. With today’s modern technology and endodontic procedures, you have nothing to fear!
What Is a Root Canal and Why Would You Need One?
A root canal is disinfection and sterilization of the pulp inside of a tooth.Treatment is needed to save a tooth when its pulp is inflamed or infected. Tooth pulp damage usually results from a deep cavity or a crack or chip in a tooth which allows bacteria to enter the inner pulp chamber and cause an infection.
If not treated, infected dental pulp will not heal on its own. The infection may progress, resulting in pain, swelling, and an abscess, often leading to bone loss around the tooth’s roots. Moreover, the infection can damage the surrounding teeth and enter the bloodstream, causing health complications.
Root canal therapy can save a natural tooth, fully restoring its health, function, and appearance. The only alternative is having the tooth extracted, which means you may require a dental implant or bridge to restore the missing tooth and maintain your healthy smile.
What Are the Symptoms of Tooth Pulp Infection or Inflammation?
Symptoms of tooth pulp damage include: tooth pain, swollen or tender gums, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, or tooth discoloration. Some patients report a bump-like pimple on the gums, indicating an abscess.
At times, tooth pulp problems may not produce any symptoms, which is why it’s necessary to maintain your twice-a-year dental exams and cleanings. Your trusted team at Afton Dental will monitor your oral health and address any concerns as they develop, preventing any complications or the need for extensive treatments down the road.
What Is the Root Canal Procedure?
We will start by numbing the area using a local anesthetic and administering dental sedation, if needed, for your comfort. We will remove the damaged tooth pulp, clean and shape the canal chambers, then seal the area using a rubbery material called gutta-percha. The last step is filling the tooth with a dental composite.
After a root canal, we may recommend placing a dental crown on the treated tooth to protect it, strengthen it, and prevent it from breaking. The resulting restoration will look, feel, and function just like any of your natural teeth.
How Should You Care for a Root Canal-Treated Tooth?
Caring for a tooth after a root canal treatment is just like caring for any of your natural teeth. As longas you continue to brush and floss regularly and keep up with your routine dental exams and cleanings, your root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime!
Root Canal Therapy Near Me
Contact Afton Dental in Concord, NC, to learn more about restoring your healthy, functional smile with the help of root canal therapy. Our team is committed to providing our valued patients with the highest level of dental care and service. Call us and schedule your appointment today!