What Do You Know About Root Canals? Part Two

On Monday, we asked what you knew about root canals. We discussed how a dental infection can impact your smile and potentially lead to tooth loss. Today, we’re going to focus on the procedure that can address infection and help save your tooth: root canal therapy. With endodontic treatment, we can provide a safe and comfortable solution for infected teeth.

How Does the Procedure Work?

First, the doctor will need to make an opening in the tooth. The opening will allow him to remove the infected tissue. Next, the inside of the tooth and the interior of the root canals will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. A restorative filling known as gutta percha will then be placed inside the tooth. Finally, a custom-made and lifelike dental crown will be placed over the tooth. The crown ensures the tooth will look natural and protects it from further infection or decay.

Will the Procedure Be Comfortable?

Yes. Most people find the procedure comparable to receiving a simple dental filling. We will administer a local anesthetic to ensure the patient feels comfortable. However, should the patient be nervous or anxious due to dental anxiety, we can also discuss sedation dentistry. Using sedation, the patient can enter a calm and relaxed state, with little to no memory of the procedure despite being conscious the entire time.

How Do I Protect My Smile?

What can you do to avoid further dental infections? There are a few steps you can take to reduce your risk. First, limit your consumption of sugary snacks and drinks to cut down on the chances of cavities forming. Next, see your dentist as soon as you experience any discomfort, such as a toothache. Don’t let a simple cavity become something more dangerous. In fact, we recommend seeing the dentist once every six months for a checkup. The checkup allows the doctor to thoroughly monitor your oral health and often identify problems in the earliest stages, before they can progress and threaten your smile.

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