Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure aimed at saving a badly damaged or infected tooth without having to extract it. This treatment involves removing the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleaning and disinfecting it, then filling and sealing it. The common causes affecting the pulp are a cracked tooth, a deep cavity, repeated dental treatment to the tooth, or trauma. At Thrive Dental, under the expert care of Dr. Kevin Golden, we ensure that root canal therapy is as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
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Why Should I Get Root Canal Therapy?
The primary reason to get root canal therapy is to save your natural tooth. A diseased or damaged tooth can cause significant discomfort, including severe pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, tenderness to touch and chewing, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling. By choosing root canal therapy, you can alleviate these symptoms, prevent the spread of infection, and avoid the need for a more complex dental procedure like tooth extraction and replacement. Plus, it's a cost-effective way to maintain your natural smile.
Did you know…
A root canal is not a procedure but a part of your tooth!
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The Benefits Of Root Canal Therapy
Pain Relief
Contrary to popular belief, root canal therapy does not cause pain; it relieves it. The procedure itself is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. With modern techniques and effective anesthesia, most patients report that they're comfortable during the procedure.
Efficient Chewing
Root canal therapy restores the normal sensation and biting force, which means you can chew efficiently again. It also helps protect the other teeth from excessive wear or strain.
Natural Appearance
One of the significant advantages of root canal therapy is that it allows you to keep your natural tooth. The final step of the procedure usually involves placing a crown on the treated tooth, which matches the color of your other teeth. This means your smile will look as natural as before.
The Root Canal Therapy Treatment Process
Examination and X-Ray
Dr. Golden will first examine the affected tooth and take an X-ray to get a clear image of the root canals and check for signs of infection in the surrounding bone. This initial step is crucial for planning the procedure and identifying any complicating factors, such as curved root canals or multiple canals in a single root. The X-ray also helps determine the exact location of the decay and infection, ensuring a precise and effective treatment.
Anesthesia and Pulp Removal
Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area. Then, Dr. Golden will make an opening in the crown of the tooth and carefully remove the diseased or dead pulp. The anesthesia ensures you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Once the tooth is numb, a dental dam is usually placed to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and dry during the treatment. Specialized tools are used to access and remove the pulp, including the nerve tissue and blood vessels within the tooth.
Cleaning, Filling, and Sealing
The next step involves thoroughly cleaning, shaping, and decontaminating the hollow area using tiny files and irrigation solutions. After the cleaning process, the tooth is filled with a rubber-like material and sealed with adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the canals. The cleaning and shaping process is meticulous, often involving several rounds to ensure all infected material is removed. The filling material, typically gutta-percha, is heated and compressed to fit snugly within the canals. In some cases, a temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration can be made.
Frequently Asked Questions
