How Does a Root Canal Treatment Save Your Teeth

Unlocking the secrets to a healthy smile is a priority for many of us. We brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly to ensure our teeth stay strong and vibrant. But what happens when an underlying issue threatens the very foundation of our pearly whites? It's time to delve into the world of root canals - a dental procedure that has saved countless teeth from extraction.

A root canal is performed when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or damaged. This can happen due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or even an injury. The purpose of a root canal is not only to alleviate pain but also to save your tooth from extraction.

Signs That You May Need a Root Canal

• Are you experiencing persistent tooth pain? Does the pain worsen when you bite down or apply pressure to your tooth? These could be signs that you may need a root canal.
• Another telltale sign is prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. If sipping on a hot cup of coffee or enjoying an ice cream cone sends shooting pain through your tooth, it's definitely time to see your dentist.
• Swelling and tenderness in the gums around the affected tooth are also indicators of potential root canal issues. You might notice a small bump near the area, which could be an abscess forming.
• Discoloration of the tooth can also be a warning sign. If you notice that one of your teeth has become significantly darker than the others, it could mean that there is damage to the pulp inside.
• If you experience recurring bad breath or have a foul taste in your mouth even after brushing and flossing regularly, this may indicate infection in the root canal system.

The Procedure: Step by Step

When it comes to a root canal procedure, many people experience anxiety and fear. However, understanding the step-by-step process can help alleviate some of those concerns.

Your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth. This ensures that you won't feel any pain during the procedure. Once you're numb and comfortable, your dentist will create a small access hole in the tooth's surface using specialized dental tools.

Through this access point, your dentist will carefully remove the infected pulp from inside the tooth. This is done using files and irrigation solutions to clean out any bacteria or debris that may be present. It's important for your dentist to be thorough in this process in order to prevent reinfection.

After cleaning out the pulp chamber and root canals, your dentist will shape them using tiny files. This allows for proper filling later on. Once everything is cleaned and shaped, a rubber-like material called gutta-percha is used to fill and seal off each canal.

In most cases, a temporary filling or crown is placed over the access hole until a permanent restoration can be made. This protects the treated tooth while allowing time for healing.

Understanding these steps helps demystify what goes on during a root canal procedure. While it may seem daunting at first glance, knowing that skilled professionals are taking precise actions to save your tooth can provide reassurance throughout the process

Make an appointment with us today at (432) 570-7080 or email us at primarydentalclinic@gmail.com for further questions. Get in touch with our office at 4519 N Garfield St., Suite 16A, Midland, TX 79705.