Root canals involve removing damaged nerve and pulp, so that your teeth can remain healthy!
Have you been told by your dentist or endodontist that you need a root canal procedure? A root canal is needed when a tooth’s root is damaged by an injury or large cavity. A root canal removes the damaged nerve and pulp and then reseals the tooth. Without proper treatment, the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form. Although a root canal can seem like a scary procedure, modern endodontic treatment is quite similar to a routine filling, and you can expect a comfortable experience throughout your appointment.
Signs a Root Canal is Needed
If you experience severe toothaches, especially upon chewing or applying pressure to a tooth, you may need a root canal. Prolonged sensitivity, discoloration, tenderness or pimples forming on the surface of the gums can also be indications. Sometimes no symptoms are present at all, which is why it’s important to undergo regular check-ups with your dentist.
Tooth Nerve and Pulp
Bacteria in the pulp chamber of a tooth can cause an infection or abscessed tooth. Abscesses are pus-filled pockets that form in the roots of an infected tooth. This can cause swelling and bone loss around the tooth, which is why a root canal is important. Your tooth’s nerve, surprisingly, is not vitally important to the tooth’s health and function beyond providing a sensation for hot and cold. Which is to say, removing the nerve will not affect your tooth’s ability to function day-to-day.
The Procedure
Root canals have a bad reputation for being painful, but truthfully they are no worse than a filling. An endodontist is a dentist that specializes in the treatment and prevention of diseases or injuries related to a tooth’s nerve or dental pulp. He/she will take an x-ray to determine areas of infection. Then, the endodontist will apply local anesthesia to the area of the tooth, numbing it and making the patient more at ease. A rubber dam may also be placed in the mouth to keep the area dry during the procedure. The endodontist removes the inflamed or infected pulp and carefully cleans the tooth. Finally the tooth is restored with a crown or filling, leaving it ready to function just like any other tooth.
Professional Dental Care from Annapolis Dental Care
If you want to schedule your next visit, please contact Annapolis Family Dental Care by calling (410) 267-0766 or visit AnnapolisDentalCare.com today! We can give you more information, or schedule your appointment. Our diligent knowledge of all dental treatments and extensive experience in all fields of dentistry, ensure Annapolis Dental is best suited to care for your oral health. You can also follow Annapolis Dental Care on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+. 1