Root Canals
Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure that can help relieve pain caused by an abscessed or infected tooth. Learn more about root canals, what to expect during treatment, and the advantages of having a root canal.
What Is a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment is used to repair teeth that are badly damaged or infected. The term “root canal” comes from the cleaning of the canals located inside the tooth root. This treatment involves the removal of the damaged or diseased pulp, along with the tooth nerve located inside the tooth’s root canal.
The root canal and pulp chamber are then cleaned, medicated, and sealed. Your Clermont dentist may recommend a dental crown or other restorative treatment to strengthen and protect the tooth. Once restored, the tooth will look and function just like any other tooth and has the potential to last a lifetime.
What Are Some Symptoms That Indicate You May Need Treatment?
While the only surefire way to determine if you need a root canal is by visiting your dentist in Clermont, there are some symptoms that could indicate the need for treatment. If you notice any of the following symptoms, see your dentist as soon as possible:
- Persistent Tooth Pain – Ongoing tooth pain is a common symptom. Pain may be felt in the bone of the tooth or you might experience referred pain in the jaw, face, or other teeth.
- Heat and Cold Sensitivity – If your tooth hurts when you eat or drink something hot or cold, you may need a root canal. Sensitivity can vary from a dull ache or a sharp pain.
- Tooth Discoloration – If you allow an infection to progress in a tooth, it can begin to discolor. Trauma can lead to the breakdown of internal tissues in the tooth that give it a black-gray color.
- Swollen Gums – If the gums are swollen near the affected tooth, a root canal may be required. Swelling may worsen or decrease and the area may feel tender to the touch.
- Cracked or Chipped Tooth – If you cracked or chipped your tooth in an accident, bacteria can begin to accumulate in the crack, resulting in inflammation and ultimately infection.
- Tooth Mobility – When an infected tooth is not promptly treated, it can begin to loosen over time. Acidic waste products due to nerve death can gradually soften the bone around the dying tooth.
What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?
Before starting, your dentist in Clermont FL will take X-rays of the affected tooth to assess the extent of the damage. The procedure is typically performed under a local anesthetic.
Once numb, the dentist will place a dental dam around the tooth to keep it dry during treatment. A drill is used to open the tooth to reach the soft tissue at the center. The infected pulp is then removed and the root canal is cleaned using small files.
Finally, the tooth is sealed using filling material to prevent reinfection. A crown is often placed over the tooth to prevent it from fracturing. A dental crown can be made from powdered glass, ceramic, metal, or porcelain.
What are the Advantages of Getting a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment is a virtually painless procedure that can offer a wide range of benefits, including the following:
- Prevent tooth loss
- Improve the look of teeth
- Prevent infection in neighboring teeth
- Boost oral health
- Prevent jawbone degeneration
Schedule an Appointment
If you have a tooth that is infected or inflamed, your Clermont family dentistry office may recommend root canal treatment. Before scheduling your appointment, it’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of this procedure so that you can make an informed decision. To learn more about root canal treatment or to schedule an appointment to discuss your options, contact the friendly dental staff at Hancock Village Dental.
