Root
Canals are often seen as a scary dental procedure
but at South Charlotte Dentistry our
dentists make the process gentle and easy. If you are experiencing tooth
sensitivity or pain, South Charlotte Dentistry can help you figure out what is
going on and the best way to treat it. Tooth pain is subjective so the best way
to determine if you need a Root Canal is to schedule an appointment with us.
The perception of Root Canals is that they are not a great experience, but here
are some things you may not know about Root Canals.
Symptoms
Are you experiencing tooth pain and sensitivity?
You may think you need a root canal, but you should schedule an appointment
with us so we can determine the severity of your pain. Some signs you may need
a root canal are:
● Sensitivity and pain throughout the day
● Pain when exposed to hot or cold liquids
● Pain when you bite down
● Tender or swollen gums near sensitive tooth
If
you are experiencing any of these symptoms, give South Charlotte Dentistry a
call and we can help you figure out the best way to get your teeth pain free.
What is a Root Canal?
A
root canal is a process where the tooth’s pulp is removed. A tooth’s pulp is a
tissue in the middle of the tooth that is small and thread-like. There are
several reasons the pulp of a tooth can be damaged. A cracked tooth leaves the
pulp exposed to the bacteria in your mouth which can lead to decay. A deep
cavity will also expose the pulp to decay and damage which is why it is
important to schedule regular check-ups with us. We want to catch cavities
quickly before they damage the root of the tooth. If you hit your tooth too
hard it can also damage the root. Symptoms
of damaged roots may not show up right away, the decay of a tooth hit in the
past may show up later. It is important
to call us as soon as you experience any of the symptoms mentioned so we can
prevent serious infection. If left untreated, pus will build up in your gum and
move into your jawline. This kind of infection will destroy bone and cause even
more pain.
What is the Process of a Root Canal?
When you set up an appointment for your tooth
pain or sensitivity, the first thing your dentist will do is take X-Rays. After
determining the cause of your tooth pain, if you need a root canal your dentist
will prepare you for the procedure by numbing the affected area with local
anesthesia. In the past, root canals were known for being a very painful
procedure but now they are as painless as getting a filling.
Depending
on which tooth is causing you pain, the dentist will begin the procedure
differently. Root canals typically start with the dentist drilling a hole in
your tooth. Generally, if the affected tooth is in the front the hole will be
created in the back of the tooth but if a molar is infected then the hole will
be in the crown of the tooth. The dentist will then remove the infected pulp
from the root. This process is called a pulpectomy. After the infection has
been removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and prepared for a filling.
Sometimes, you may need more than one visit and if this is the case a temporary
filling will be placed to protect the tooth. When this temporary filling is
removed, the pulp chamber is filled and sealed into place with cement. If you
need the extra support sometimes a rod is inserted into the tooth as well.
Finally, a crown is placed over the tooth. This gives the tooth its natural
shape and appearance.
Why
A Root Canal Might Be Your Best Bet!
Choosing
to have a root canal comes with many benefits. There are several dental
procedures that could be done to relieve the pain of a toothache, but many of
these options include removing the entire tooth, having an awkward smile,
costly procedures, and more. With a root canal you can:
·
Speak and chew food naturally
·
Have the normal feel of your natural tooth
·
Keep the natural appearance
·
Help protect other teeth
Caring for Your Teeth After a Root Canal
After
your root canal, the infected tooth should be healthy for the rest of your life
but tooth decay can still occur.. After a root canal, there is no longer any
pulp to keep the tooth alive. Teeth that have been treated are more brittle
than your other teeth and may fracture easier. In your next check-up, your
dentist will take X-Rays again to determine if the root canal successfully
removed all the infected tissue.
After
your root canal, it is just as important that you practice good dental hygiene.
It is recommended that you brush at least
twice a day. Bacteria builds up in your mouth and brushing will keep your teeth
from getting infected again. It is just
as important to floss. Flossing removes bacteria and plaque stuck between your
teeth, which if left alone can cause gum disease and lead to another infected
tooth.
Visiting
the dentist regularly will also help prevent future tooth disease. If you experience
tooth pain and sensitivity again, visiting the dentist regularly means they can
catch infection early on before it becomes worse. After a root canal, avoid
hard foods; the treated teeth are not as strong as your other teeth. These
teeth are at a greater risk of cracking or breaking and causing damage to the
filling and the inside of your tooth.
South
Charlotte Dentistry wants to help you relieve your tooth pain. Our
doctors are dedicated to making your root canals as painless as possible. Don’t
listen to old stigmatisms about painful root canals, our office is trained and
equipped with the latest technology to ensure a smooth procedure. Don’t
keep living with tooth pain, call 704-759-0908 to schedule your appointment today!
