Root Canal An injury to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if it has no visible chips or cracks. If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess. There are many clinical reasons for needing root canal treatment, but there are also countless practical reasons why saving the natural tooth is a wise choice. Jason Widner DMD Family Dentistry helps you maintain your natural smile and continue eating the foods you love. With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last a lifetime.What Is a Root Canal?A root canal is a funnel-shaped channel full of soft tissue that runs from the tooth’s surface down through the tooth itself and into the root. Both root stems have a root canal. The canal is where the main nerve tissue in the tooth is found. Why Does it Require Treatment?The treatment of root canals is normally carried out when a tooth shows some decay or infection level. The procedure is designed to prevent further decay or spread of infection, leading to a total loss of the tooth. The soffit tissue is completely removed from the canals and replaced with artificial cement. Why Do I Need Root Canal Treatment?Not treating a diseased or injured nerve will cause the infection to spread as your tooth cannot heal on its own. An untreated tooth may mean the loss of the tooth and increased expenses. DiagnosisThere are several steps our professionals will take to determine if you need root canal treatment. The use of X-rays helps achieve a proper diagnosis. One of our professionals may also check to see if you are experiencing sensitivity to varying temperatures or pressure. These techniques are used to ensure you receive the best treatment possible. Treatment Procedures for a Root CanalOur professionals will use dental gum, which is a thin sheet of rubber or vinyl, to isolate the infected tooth from the rest of the mouth and keep it dry. A small hole is then drilled into the infected tooth to gain access to the pulp chamber and root canals to be treated. The root canals are then cleaned and shaped for fillings. At the next appointment, the root canals are filled and sealed. A crown is often placed over the tooth to avoid any infection or contamination in the future. After the treatment, an antibiotic will be prescribed for you to take to prevent infection. What Happens After Treatment?In some cases, natural tissue inflammation may be the source of a little discomfort. Our professionals will want to monitor the healing tissue with a follow up exam. It is advisable to avoid difficult to chew foods. It will also be important to practice good oral hygiene and visit our professionals for follow up. Without proper hygiene and care to root canal could fail and need to be re-treated. Root canal treatment makes it possible for an infected or diseased tooth to be saved rather than removed. The root canal treatment is a highly successful procedure and can last a lifetime. The treated tooth can function like any other tooth after restoration. For more information, and to find out how you can benefit from the treatment of root canal, call Jason Widner DMD Family Dentistry at 425-868-0123 today. |
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