Keep Healthy Teeth For a Lifetime with Root Canal Therapy
Our teeth are meant to last a lifetime! Years ago, infected teeth were simply pulled (extracted), which could negatively affect the adjacent teeth. However, with the advancements in the field of dentistry, infected teeth can be potentially saved through proper root canal therapy followed by good oral hygiene.
When a tooth’s nerve is infected, root canal therapy is required to save the tooth. This involves removing any live tissue from inside the tooth and nerves, along with germs and decay. The remaining space is then replaced with restorative materials that restore the tooth’s full functionality.
A root canal is the therapy of choice for saving a tooth that would otherwise die and must be extracted.
Patients often think getting rid of the tooth is the best course of action. However, this is a dangerous misconception. Because pulling the tooth out is actually more costly and can cause serious difficulties for surrounding teeth.
Root canal therapy is quite effective, though subsequent infections may require a tooth to be retreated or extracted.
What Does Root Canal Therapy Involve?
First, the tooth will be numbed, and a rubber dam will be placed around the tooth. This keeps the area dry and free from saliva. Second, an opening will be made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files will be gently placed into the opening one at a time. This will remove the pulp, nerve tissues, and bacteria. At this point, we can also remove tooth decay with specialized dental tools before finally sealing the tooth with a filling. If more appointments are needed, then we will use a temporary filling.
Have an infected or painful tooth? Let us know today!
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