Root canal is a dental treatment to save and preserve a dead tooth. It involves pulp removal and cleaning out of the contents of the internal canals of the tooth being treated.
1. What are the signs that you need root canal?
Lasting pain in the tooth could be a major sign that you need root canal treatment. Your dentist will help find out the root cause of the pain and determine whether you need the treatment. Other signs to look out for include concentrated sensitivity, tooth discoloration and swelling of gums.
2. Why you need root canal?
The only other solution to tooth decay besides root canal treatment is removal and replacement of the affected tooth. The treatment does achieve the same results as root canal but it is way costlier, longer and more complicated, making it less desirable. Root canals only remove the decayed part of the tooth and preserve most of the structure, which upon recovery will be just as useful as your other natural teeth.
3. What to expect during root canal?
Before the main procedure, your dentist will numb the area around your tooth to make the drilling painless and comfortable. He will then use a rubber dam to keep the rest of your mouth separated from the operative area.
Next, your dentist will remove the top of your tooth to create an opening through which they will scoop out the unhealthy flesh and nerves. They will then remove the pulp and wash the open cleft using clean water and sodium hypochlorite before filling it with gutta percha and sealing it.
You will be informed if there will be need for additional appointments and dental care. Your dentist may instruct you to return after a few days to have the treated tooth crowned.
Dr. Gregory Robins offers root canal and several other preventative treatments for infected teeth. Call (626) 919-7707 today to schedule an appointment.