A Root Canal - It Could Save Your Tooth!
You know about root canals…and you know you absolutely don't want one. You have heard that they are not only extremely painful but that they don't usually work. The truth is that our root canals are not only much less painful than most patients expect, they can also relieve the pain caused by in infected or decayed tooth. Best of all, when properly done by an expert dentist, a root canal can save your own natural tooth when it would otherwise have to be pulled.
Why Would I Need a Root Canal?
A root canal is usually necessary when the nerves, pulp or connective tissue in a tooth has become damaged because of infection. Usually this is caused by decay either in an natural tooth or in a tooth with a metal filling that has failed and allowed bacteria to enter the tooth. Untreated, this infection can lead to an abscess at the end of the tooth root. An abscess is extremely painful and can cause jawbone damage, systemic infections and swelling. In the past, these infections were often a cause of death!
Fractured teeth and facial trauma can also lead to tooth nerve damage and necessitate a root canal.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
We start by taking x-rays to take a look at your tooth roots and look for abscesses. Getting a clear idea of what your roots look like will facilitate the root canal and help ensure success. The next step is to numb the area. Because so many of our patients have a certain amount of anxiety about root canals, we also offer Nitrous Oxide sedation to help them drift off into a relaxed and comfortable state during the procedure.
Once you are relaxed and numb, we will place a rubber dam around your tooth to protect it and keep the area dry. Next we will drill through the enamel to reach the pulp of your tooth, which is gently scrubbed along with the damaged nerves and any debris. Once your tooth is thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and medicated, we will seal the tooth, first with a rubber sealant and then with a custom made crown.
What Can I Expect After My Root Canal?
You will very likely experience some tenderness or sensitivity, especially if there was inflammation or infection before the root canal procedure. If your pain increases, please call us right away, but most discomfort can be easily managed by over-the-counter analgesics.
Will my Root Canal be Successful?
The standard success rate of root canals is about 95 percent and we pride ourselves on a better rate than the standard… but there are cases in which a root canal may not be successful. We'll be happy to talk to you about all the variables at your visit.
When Should I Call You to Schedule a Root Canal?
Occasionally there are no symptoms or pain to indicate the need for a root canal but in general, if you experience any of these symptoms, call Renaissance Dental Center right away:
Darkening or discoloration of the tooth or gum
Sharp and persistent toothache or pain when chewing
A pimple, swelling or tenderness of the gums
Ongoing sensitivity to temperature changes
For more information about root canals and how they could save your tooth, call Renaissance Dental Center at (919) 786-6766, or visit www.northhillsdentists.com.
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