ROOT CANAL THERAPY
Do I really need a ROOT CANAL?!?
Root canal therapy is a procedure that may be recommended if the nerve of a tooth is infected (from decay), dead (from trauma), or has become hyperactive (from decay or trauma).
The nerves and blood supply for the tooth is located inside each tooth in its pulp chamber. When the pulp becomes infected due to decay or injury to the tooth, the pulp must be removed from the center of the tooth and the canals of each root. The remaining chamber is filled with a rubber-based material to seal it off once the infected pulp is removed. After a root canal procedure the tooth becomes highly susceptible to fracture. The tooth must be restored by a crown as soon as possible to prevent fractures or the need for additional root canal therapy. The process may seem scary, but it is actually pretty simple and pain free.
Root canal treatment is completed in one or two office visits, depending on the presence of infection and the required treatment plan. The tooth continues to function like any other tooth after restoration. With good oral hygiene, the restored tooth has the potential to last a lifetime.
See your Dentist if you have any of these Symptoms:
- Tooth or gum pain, discoloration, or prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
- A tooth that is tender when it is touched
- A tooth abscess (pus enclosed in the tissues of the jawbone at the tip of an infected tooth) - general swelling around the area of the tooth or jaw
- Pus drainage in your mouth
- Swelling or tenderness in the lymph nodes under your jaw
Sometimes an endodontic problem can exist without warning signs. In these cases, a digital X-ray taken during a routine dental checkup will reveal the tooth damage.
Dr. Nawiesniak will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums and supporting bone structure, recommend a treatment plan, discuss it with you, and answer your questions. If a root canal is needed Dr Nawiesniak will either perform the procedure himself or refer you to an specialist called an endodontist.
The Root Canal Process:
- A local anesthetic is applied to the affected tooth and surrounding area
- A small, protective sheet called a “dental dam” is used to isolate the tooth to keep it clean and free of saliva during your procedure
- An opening is made in the top of the tooth and the dentist/endodontist will remove the soft pulp and nerve and then shape the interior for filling
- The root canal is cleaned, medicated, and filled with a biocompatible material
- A temporary filling is placed pending your return to Patriot Dental.
- Dr Nawiesniak will then place a permanent restoration, such as a crown, to protect the tooth
We will work with each patient individually to discuss the details of your treatment and any possible alternatives. Providing you with the highest standard of care is our top priority.