Root Canal Therapy
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Relieve Pain and Save Your Natural Tooth
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy or endodontic treatment is aimed at removing the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from the inside of the affected tooth. The pulp, that lies within the root canal, consists of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues. Infection in this area occurs because of deep decay, trauma, or cracks in the tooth and results in severe pain and swelling.
During the procedure, the inflamed pulp is removed, and the canal is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent subsequent infections. After root canal treatment, a dental crown is placed on the treated tooth to restore its strength, function, and aesthetics.
When is a Root Canal Needed?
- Continuous toothache: The throbbing and constant pain occurs when chewing or putting pressure.
- Heat or cold sensitivity: Having lingering sensitivity when eating or drinking hot or cold substances.
- Swelling or tenderness: Gums swelling over the affected tooth with perhaps a small bump or abscess.
- Tooth discolored: One or more teeth that are darker in appearance or simply discolored, indicating pulp infection or necrosis.
- Looseness of the tooth: Due to resorption of the supporting bone and soft tissue, an infected tooth may feel as though it is "loose".
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
- Pain Relief: Removal of the source of infection and the pain gives you back your ability to perform normal activities for you.
- Preserving Your Natural Tooth: The creation of the root canal saves the natural tooth from extraction and its subsequent replacement.
- Barriers for Spreading Infection: By infected pulp removal, root canal therapy provides a barrier for bacteria to invade the other areas.
- Improvement of Oral Health: Restoration of the tooth prevents complication development and also protects all of the dental health.
- Recover Functionality and Looks: A crown placed after the process returns a tooth's functional strength and appearance.
The Root Canal Procedure: Step-by-Step
- A full examination
The treatment begins with a comprehensive examination and digital X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. We will talk about your symptoms, explain the procedure, and address any questions you may have so that you feel comfortable and well-informed.
- Local Anesthesia for Comfort
To ensure a pain-free experience, we administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth. For patients with dental anxiety, sedation options are also available to help you remain calm throughout the procedure.
- Pulp Removal and Cleaning
Once the tooth is numb, a small opening is made in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The diseased pulp is removed, and the canal is cleaned, disinfected, and shunted in readiness for sealing.
- Sealing and Protection
After cleaning, the canal space is filled with a biocompatible material, gutta-percha, to shut the space to prevent further infection.
- Crown Placement
To restore strength and utility, the prepared tooth is fitted with a custom dental crown. The crown protects the tooth while blending seamlessly into your natural smile.
Aftercare and Recovery
Root canals usually cause a bit of sensitivity or discomfort for the next few days. These tips will help promote speedy healing:
- Do not chew anything with your treated tooth until the crown has been placed.
- Brush and floss for good hygiene.
- Take prescribed medications to control pain
- Schedule the follow-up appointments to monitor healing and placement of the crown.
Why Choose Port Orange Family Dentistry for Root Canal Therapy?
- Trained and Caring Professionals: Our dental personnel are skilled by many years of precision and careful root canal procedures to ensure the best results.
- Patient-Centered Approach: At Port Orange Family Dentistry, your comfort and wellness are our main concern. We walk you through every aspect of the procedure, ensuring that you feel secure before, during, and after treatment.
- Sedation Options to Take Away the Stress: Various sedation options are available for patients who deal with dental anxiety, making the root canal therapy relaxed and enjoyable.