Thanks to modern 21st century dental technology, you don’t have to run the other way when you hear the
phrase, “Root Canal Therapy.” Root Canal Therapy in Fountain Valley is no more
intrusive than a filling.
Root Canal Therapy is necessary if the nerves
in your teeth have become decayed, are infected, or cracked. Root Canal Therapy
is used to save the tooth by removing the diseased pulp located inside the
tooth. The pulp consists of nerves, blood vessels, and tissue that keep your
tooth healthy. Using special tools and dental materials it is possible to
restore your tooth back to its normal function.
When the nerves in your tooth die, they need
to be removed by your dentist using Root Canal Therapy. Although some people
would rather have the tooth extracted, a pulled tooth can cause more problems
that could prove quite costly.
According to the American Dental Association,
Root Canal Therapy can last for the rest of your life and is very successful.
With that being said, occasionally the tooth that was treated with Root Canal
Therapy may need to be retreated because of infection.
Only your dentist can determine if Root Canal
Therapy is necessary, but there are some symptoms to watch for. These include:
- Temperature sensitivity
- Toothaches
- Pimples or abscesses on your gums
- Tenderness and swelling
Be aware that you may not have any symptoms
at all. When in doubt, schedule regular appointments with your dentist.
You may need a root canal if tooth decay has
infected the pulp inside of your tooth. Root Canal Therapy is also necessary if
an abscess or infection has developed on the tip of the root or inside the
tooth itself.
Root Canal Therapy can take one of more
dental appointments and is usually performed by your dentist. On occasion, a
root canal specialist, or endodontist may be called in to take care of the
procedure.
After your tooth is numbed, a rubber sheet or
dam is placed around your tooth to make sure that it is dry and saliva free. An
opening is made at the top of your tooth so that your dentist can file the
opening removing the pulp from each root. If tooth decay is apparent, your
dentist will remove that as well.
Once the tooth is cleaned, your dentist will
seal it with a temporary or permanent filling dependant on the extent of the
infection. If a second appointment is needed, your dentist will remove the
temporary filling, check the roots, and fill it permanently. Your dentist may
also recommend a dental crown to protect the tooth after the Root Canal.
For more information regarding Root Canal
Therapy, schedule an appointment with your Fountain Valley Dentist today.
