Root Canal Treatment
What is root canal treatment?
A root canal involves removing infected dental pulp — a tooth’s inner layer — and filling the remaining cavity to prevent further infection. If untreated, the infection can spread to other teeth, with the pain becoming progressively worse.
Root canal treatment prevents infection from spreading or returning and can even save you from needing a tooth extraction.
If you experience tooth pain and sensitivity, call Neighborhood Dentistry PC today.
How do I know if I need a root canal?
Dr. Blank recommends root canal treatment for a deep cavity, a cracked tooth, or issues stemming from previous dental work. Signs that you may need a root canal include:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Tender or swollen gums
- Pain when biting and chewing
- Darkened gums
- Pimples on the gums
Attending twice-yearly dental checkups allows Dr. Blank to catch dental issues before they get so far as to need a root canal.
What happens during a root canal procedure?
Dr. Blank first numbs the area before making a small hole in the tooth, through which he removes all the infected dental pulp. In many cases, he removes the roots too, if necessary. This completely harmless and standard procedure can prevent the further spread of infection.
He then cleans the area and seals the cavity left by the pulp to stabilize the tooth and the hole through which he entered the tooth. Finally, he strengthens the tooth with a filling or crown. Dr. Blank offers tooth-colored fillings and crowns that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Following your treatment, your mouth can feel numb for up to four hours. However, barring slight discomfort, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t return to school, work, or other activities directly after — although you may prefer to avoid eating or drinking until the numbness passes to prevent mouth injury.
Dr. Blank prescribes antibiotics to make sure no trace of infection remains.
Why have a root canal?
Before root canals, dentists had to pull an infected tooth to prevent the infection from spreading and ease the pain it caused. Root canal treatment allows Dr. Blank to save the natural tooth. Avoiding tooth extraction preserves facial structure and jawbone health, restores chewing and biting function, and prevents needing a dental prosthetic.
Expert dental care is at hand when you partner with Neighborhood Dentistry PC. Call the practice today to request an appointment.
Easy Payment Options
