Root Canals
Root Canal Procedures
Inside each tooth, under the protective enamel, is your tooth pulp, which is made up of vessels, tissue, and nerves. If this pulp gets inflamed or infected, it can become incredibly painful and cause the whole tooth to essentially “die” if it gets bad enough. Root canal treatment is a way to remove that damaged pulp before it leads to much more serious damage and discomfort.
Some of the more common causes of inflamed or infected pulp include:
- Deep cavities
- Cracks or chips in teeth
- Large fillings
- Repeated procedures on the tooth
- Mouth trauma/injury
Not sure if you need a root canal? Here are some common signs and symptoms:
- Toothache
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- Tenderness or swelling in gums
- Small bump on gums near tooth
We recommend that anyone experiencing any of these symptoms make an appointment so we can identify the problem and find a solution as quickly as possible, and before it gets any worse!
What is Root Canal Surgery Like?
Root canal surgery is a fairly simple procedure. First, we completely numb the treatment area with local anesthesia to minimize your discomfort during the procedure. Next, we remove any diseased pulp and thoroughly clean the affected tooth canal. After that, we fill and seal the area, and place a restoration (usually a dental crown), to ensure the tooth is strong and still looks great. You may experience some slight sensitivity after the procedure, but it’s completely manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
“I love this dentist and have been going to them most of my life. Very friendly and they know what they are doing. I have had a lot of problems with my teeth over the years and I have never had a bad experience here.”
