What is a Root Canal?
When a cavity is small, bacteria and decay are contained to the outermost layer of the tooth. As a cavity grows, the decay advances deeper into the tooth, leading to a very painful toothache and infection.
A root canal removes decay from deep within the tooth, stops any infection, and relieves bad toothaches. By performing a root canal, Dr. Nidhi can help you keep your natural teeth for as long as possible, avoiding the need for an extraction and thereby an implant.
While most root canals are the result of untreated decay, injuries and accidents can crack teeth, too. This allows bacteria to spread deep inside the tooth. So if you’ve broken a tooth in a car accident or while eating, get it checked out.
The sooner the better!
Signs and Symptoms for Possible Root Canal Treatment
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Severe toothache pain.
- Sometimes no symptoms are present.
- Swelling and/or tenderness.
Reasons for Root Canal Treatment
- Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).
- Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
- Injury or trauma to the tooth.
What does Root Canal Therapy involve ?
A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments.
While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva. An access opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments.
Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.
At the next appointment, usually a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will be placed to cover the opening on top of the tooth. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function.
After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed.
You will be given care instructions after each appointment. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.
Services
Restore your teeth to their natural beauty with minimally-invasive treatments. Fillings, Crowns, Root Canal Therapy and many more.
Your annual exam keeps your teeth and gums healthy. Our gentle and high-tech treatments remove tartar and bacteria, lowering your risk of cavities and gum disease.