A root canal is a procedure that repairs and saves a tooth that is so badly decayed or infected that its dental pulp is infected and inflamed. During the process, the pulp and nerve are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed to prevent further decay. Without a root canal, the tooth will need to be extracted.
At Hall Dental, we also recommend this treatment if the tooth's structure has been compromised due to a large filling or if the tooth has fractured. If left untreated, it can lead to infection and pain.
Root canal treatment involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth. Our dentist will first numb the area with local anesthesia to ensure a painless procedure. Then, an access hole is created in the tooth to reach the pulp chamber. The infected pulp is carefully removed, and the root canals are cleaned, shaped, and disinfected. The canals are then filled with a biocompatible gutta-percha material to seal them.
After the root canal is completed, the tooth may be weakened and more prone to fractures. To strengthen and protect the tooth, a dental crown is often placed. The crown is custom-made to match the shape and color of the natural tooth and is cemented over the treated tooth, restoring its function and appearance.
After the procedure, patients may experience slight discomfort or sensitivity in the treated area for a few days. However, once the pain subsides, they can chew normally and eat foods they avoided before the endodontic therapy. Patients can return to their routine within a few weeks of the procedure, including brushing, flossing, and eating their favorite foods. A root canal will save the natural tooth and prevent the need for dental implants later on.
Deep tooth decay that reaches the inner layers of the tooth can infect the pulp. If the decay is left untreated, it can progress and cause pulp inflammation or infection.
An untreated cavity or infection can spread to the tooth's root and form an abscess. A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that develops at the tooth's root, causing severe pain and swelling.
A crack or fracture in the tooth can expose the pulp to bacteria and irritants, leading to inflammation or infection. Depending on the severity and location of the crack, a root canal may be needed to treat the affected tooth.
Root canal treatment is a highly effective and commonly performed procedure that could ensure the preservation of natural teeth. It helps alleviate pain, restore oral health, and maintain the function and appearance of the affected tooth. To learn more about the benefits of root canal procedures, contact Hall Dental at 1180 Resurgence Dr. Ste 300, Watkinsville, GA 30677, or call (706) 549-8737.
1180 Resurgence Dr Ste 300, Watkinsville, GA 30677
Email: info@halldental.com
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