
Root canal therapy is necessary when the nerve of a tooth is affected by decay or infection. To save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth), nerves, bacteria, and any decayed material are removed. The resulting space is then filled with specialized medicated dental materials to restore the tooth’s function.
Undergoing a root canal is often the best way to save a tooth that would otherwise die and need extraction. Many patients mistakenly believe that removing a problematic tooth is a viable solution, but this can lead to higher costs and complications for surrounding teeth.
Request an AppointmentRoot canal treatment is highly successful and can last a lifetime, although sometimes retreatment may be needed if new infections occur.
Signs and Symptoms Indicating Possible Root Canal Therapy:
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Severe toothache
- Occasionally, there may be no symptoms
- Swelling and/or tenderness
Reasons for Root Canal Therapy:
- Decay has reached the tooth’s pulp (the living tissue)
- Infection or abscess has developed inside the tooth or at the root tip
- Injury or trauma to the tooth
What Does Root Canal Therapy Involve?
A root canal procedure may require one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or an endodontist (a root canal specialist).
During the procedure, the tooth will be numbed, and a rubber dam will be placed around it to keep it dry. An access opening will be made on top of the tooth, and a series of root canal files will be used to remove the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. Any decay will also be addressed with specialized dental instruments.
Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if further appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.
At the next appointment, usually about a week later, the roots and inner cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will cover the access opening, and it is typically recommended that teeth that have undergone root canal treatment receive a crown (cap) to protect against fractures and restore full function.
After treatment, some sensitivity may persist, but this should diminish as inflammation decreases and the tooth heals.
You will receive care instructions after each appointment, and maintaining good oral hygiene along with regular dental visits will help prolong the success of your root canal treatment.
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Call our Thornton dentist with any questions, and schedule your appointment today!