Root Canal Therapy

A root canal is a natural Canal that runs within the center of each root. It contains a soft “pulp” that has the tooth’s nerve and blood vessels. When a tooth’s nerve or pulp is damaged, bacteria can form in the root canal — causing infection identified by various symptoms, including sensitivity to hot and cold, toothache, bone loss around the root, swelling of your face or drainage into your gums. Damage to the nerve and pulp can come from decay, large fillings, cracks or chips in a tooth and even trauma to your face.

Dentists at A+Dentistry perform root canal (or endodontic) procedures to save teeth that are badly decayed, by removing the pulp and nerves and then sealing the cleaned canal. A tooth’s nerve function provides sensory responses to hot and cold temperatures. The removal of the nerve does not affect the primary functions of the tooth.
Without treatment, infection and abscesses can form on the tissues surrounding your tooth. If you have an infected tooth it can be very painful and you should seek immediate medical attention from an experienced A+Dentistry dentist.

Signs that a root canal is needed:

• Heightened and prolonged hot or cold sensitivity

• You experience severe tooth pain when chewing

• A tooth’s color darkens

• Gum tissue near a tooth is swollen, sensitive or pimpled

• Nerve damage and other side effects

The Root Canal Procedure

While root canal procedures have the reputation of being painful, at A+Dentistry our doctors guaranty no discomfort during the procedure! A root canal may require one or more office visits. At A+Dentistry your doctor will fully anesthetize the tooth and the area around the tooth, similar to when you receive a filling. Then the affected tooth and the infected pulp and nerve tissue will be cleaned and sealed. Depending on the health of the remaining tooth structure, it may be necessary to wait for any remaining infected tissue to heal before the tooth can be sealed. If the root canal cannot be filled on the day of the procedure, then a temporary filling will be placed in your mouth to protect the tooth from food, saliva and bacteria.

Due to the extent of damage or decay to your tooth, the tooth is built up and a crown is typically placed over the tooth in order to prevent any future fractures. Our A+Dentistry dentists will discuss the need for any additional dental work with you.

After the Root Canal Procedure

In a small percentage of cases, a tooth may feel sensitive for the first few days after a root canal, especially if the tooth was infected. Typically, any discomfort resulting from the root canal can be controlled with ordinary over-the-counter medications.

Also, rare Complications from root canals can arise and are generally due to a re-infection or contamination to the tooth due to additional cracking or a breakdown of the inner sealant. It is important to maintain regular brushing and flossing of your teeth.

To learn more about Root Canals, call us at 770-889-5335.