EVERYTHING ABOUT ROOT CANAL PROCEDURE

Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is an oral procedure that is performed to correct damage to the soft pulp inside the tooth. The pulp is a soft tissue found inside the root canals of a tooth. It contains blood vessels, connective tissues, and nerve endings. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause both pain and sensitivity. This damage is typically the result of a bacterial infection. If left untreated, the infection can spread into surrounding tissue and result in tooth loss.

A root canal treatment repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. This treatment involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp, cleaning the root canals, and then sealing them. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected, and abscesses may form, leading to tooth loss or other complications. Once the root canal is complete, the restored tooth can continue to function and provide years of comfortable chewing.

When Is A Root Canal Needed?

Root canal therapy is needed when decay has infected a tooth’s pulp. The symptoms of a root canal infection include the following:

• Pain 
• Tooth darkening 
• Dental abscess 
• Chronic bad breath
• Swelling of the gum near the affected tooth
• Pus oozing from the affected tooth
• A swollen cheek or jaw

The treatment involves removing the infected pulp and replacing it with a dental filling. This filling seals the tooth and protects it from future infection. Root canal therapy is one of the most effective dental treatments; it has a 90-95% success rate. It’s especially recommended when the infection is caused by a cavity that is too large for a dental filling. This can happen if decay has been left untreated for too long.

What Can You Expect During Root Canal Therapy?

First, the dentist will numb the area to be treated with a local anesthetic. Next, the dentist will create an opening in the tooth, which will allow access to the root canals. The dentist will then remove infected tissue and clean the canals to access and clean the roots of the teeth. After the canals are cleaned and shaped, the dentist will fill the canals with a filling material. Finally, the dentist will place a dental crown on the tooth.

What Happens After Root Canal Therapy?

After the root canal is completed, you may be prescribed pain medication, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory medication. You may also be instructed to eat only soft foods or avoid chewing with the tooth for a few days.

Ken Caryl Dentistry offers the best dental services to maintain your healthy smile. For more details, call Dentist Littleton at (303) 973-5280 or visit The Courtyards at Deer Creek 7631 Shaffer Pkwy Suite B, Littleton, CO 80127.