Root Canal When the soft tissues in the pulp of the tooth become infected or inflamed, they need to be removed and a root canal is necessary. Untreated infection or inflammation can agitate the nerve causing severe tooth pain and, in some cases, form an abscess at the root of the tooth. Pulp infection has a number of causes including poor dental hygiene leading to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth, or chips or cracks in the enamel, which can allow harmful bacteria into the tooth. Injury or force trauma to the tooth can damage the root, leading to inflammation from the inside out even if there is no visible decay, chips, or cracks on the outside of the tooth. There are a few symptoms of pulp infection: if you have any lingering pain in a tooth when biting or chewing, pimples on the gums, lingering sensitivity to heat or cold after the sensation is removed, deep decay or darkening of the gums, chipped or cracked tooth, swollen or tender gums. Biannual dental exams are crucial in combating tooth decay. If you have any lingering symptoms or discomfort come see our team. One of our dentists will see if you are at risk of infection or need a root canal. Schedule an appointment at Town Center Dental today. Tooth anatomyTo understand root canals, it helps to know a little more about the anatomy of the tooth. The top outer layer of the tooth is the enamel. This is the part that you see when you smile. Beneath it is a hard layer called dentin. Under the dentin is a chamber filled with soft tissue called the pulp, composed mostly of blood vessels and nerve endings. It develops the surrounding hard tissues of the tooth during development, providing it with nutrients. Once the tooth is fully mature, it can survive without its pulp, taking nutrients from the tissues surrounding it. Root canal procedureThe root canal is a somewhat complex procedure and can span over two or more dental visits. We hope to alleviate any fears or anxieties you may have about undergoing this procedure. Town Center Dental is here to answer any of your concerns or worries. We want to help you feel confident; your security and safety are part of the process in providing you the very best in dental care. A root canal can be broken down into four stages. First, a radiograph of the tooth is taken using an X-ray. Using the X-ray, the dentist can assess the level of infection in the tooth. A local anesthetic is administered. Once the tooth and surrounding tissue are numbed, a small protective sheet called a dental dam is placed around the tooth, isolating it from neighboring teeth and saliva. Second, using small thin instruments the dentist makes a hole in the crown of the tooth. The infected pulp is removed, and a space is made in the chamber of the tooth. Third, after the chamber is cleaned and shaped, the roots are filled with a biocompatible material. In most cases, the dentist will place a filling over the chamber. After your final visit, the dentist will have you come back to remove the filling and place a crown over the tooth, protecting it and bringing it back to its full function. This is the fourth stage. Our top priority at Town Center Dental is your prolonged dental health and function. If you need root canal treatment, call us at 636-273-5866. |
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