Endodontics is a specialized form of dentistry that focusses on the softer, inner tissue of the teeth. Root canals are the most common endodontic procedure, and they are necessary in many situations to preserve your natural teeth while relieving the pain.
At the Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, we can provide effective root canal therapy with state-of-the-art technology in a comfortable setting. Don’t wait to set up an appointment. When infections or inflammations reach the nerve of a tooth, it can be extremely painful, and these endodontic procedures will help minimize your discomfort and pain.
When Do You Need a Root Canal?
In general, we only recommend a root canal when decay or infection has damaged the pulp of the tooth or touched a nerve. At this point, if you do not receive proper care, the infection could lead to further damage and require extraction.
An aching tooth alone may not mean that you need a root canal. However, if the pain is accompanied by the following symptoms, be sure to contact us immediately.
- Tenderness or swelling in the gums and soft tissues around the tooth
- Extreme sensitivity to cold/hot temperature changes
- Severe pain while chewing
- A dark or discolored tooth
- Pimples on the gums that don’t go away
The two most common causes of infection in the pulp are deep cavities and tooth fractures. If these problems aren’t treated, the infection can reach the root tip or pass into the jawbone where it will cause an abscess – and a lot of pain. You can avoid potential problems in the future if you get emergency tooth repairs as quickly as possible.
How Does a Root Canal Work?
Your treatment will begin with some x-rays so we can determine exactly how far the infection has progressed. This will also help us plan the shape of the canal before we open up the tooth.
From there, the procedure is simple. We will use an anesthetic to minimize the discomfort and the begin removing the pulp, bacteria, and decayed nerve. We will then clean and shape the canal so we can properly seal everything up with a high-quality dental crown.
Trust Our Experienced Endodontists
Endodontic procedures go beyond just root canals. We can diagnose and treat a range of different types of oral pain. These procedures require trained experts who understand how to work with the huge network of nerves in the mouth and around the teeth.
At the Center for Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry, our endodontists can help you find relief from the pain. Contact us today to set up an appointment.