Root Canal Therapy

Are you worried about getting a root canal?

Root canals have long been one of the most feared procedures in dentistry.

Today, however, dentistry has evolved to the point where root canal therapy is no longer the painful procedure it once was. It’s time to look past the bad reputation of the root canal and see it for the valuable, pain-relieving procedure it actually is.

Root Canal Therapy

Anatomically speaking, the root canal is the area of the tooth that houses the pulp or nerve. Sometimes this part of the tooth can become infected.

When this happens, not only is the tooth painful and sensitive, the infection can also spread to other areas of the mouth as well as other teeth. The most effective way to treat this infection is root canal therapy.

Once the anaesthetic takes hold and you are completely numb, your dentist will create a small hole in your tooth. Working through the hole, the infected material will be drained out along with the pulp and any other debris. The interior of the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned out to make sure that no infection is left. An antibiotic medication may be placed inside the tooth to prevent further infection. Root canal therapy takes place over several visits to ensure that the tooth is free from bacteria & ready to be restored.

After successful completion of root canal therapy & at a seperate appointment the tooth will  be filled and a cap or crown will most likely be placed. This is necessary because the structure of the tooth will be weakened, and a restoration will protect the tooth from breakage and also allow you to chew comfortably.

Do I Need a Root Canal?

If you have been experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, call our office. You may have an infection that could require treatment.

• Severe pain in one or more teeth
• Pain that is aggravated by chewing or other pressure
• Pain and sensitivity aggravated by hot or cold temperatures
• Darkening of one or more teeth
• A “pimple” on the gums
• Swelling and tenderness in the gums that may radiate to the cheek

Call our office to make an appointment. Root canal therapy may be necessary to get rid of your pain and reduce your stress.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.