Root canal treatment involves removing infected tissue from the inside of your tooth. This relieves pain and prevents future problems.
After the procedure, we will place a temporary filling to protect the opening. You will return for a follow-up appointment to have the opening permanently sealed with a material called gutta percha.
Painless
A root canal is often associated with pain and discomfort, but modern advancements in dental technology and strategies have made them far less painful. Your endodontist will use local anesthesia to numb the area and block any pain impulses from reaching your brain. You may also be given sedation dentistry, which is common for more invasive procedures and allows you to stay calm and relaxed throughout the procedure.
The infected tooth will be isolated from the surrounding teeth using a rubber barrier called a dental dam, and a hole will be drilled into it to access the damaged pulp. The infection will be removed and the empty cavity will be cleaned and disinfected to ensure that bacteria are completely eliminated from the site. Then, a rubber-like material called gutta percha will be filled to prevent any future infections from occurring in the tooth.
Unlike tooth extraction, which leaves a gap in the smile, a root canal treatment Raleigh NC saves your natural tooth and helps you maintain a healthy and confident smile. It will also prevent you from having to replace your natural teeth with artificial ones like dental implants or dentures, which can cause many complications over time.
Saves the Tooth
If you have a root canal infection, it can be very painful. However, it’s far better to undergo the treatment than to allow an untreated infection to cause further pain and discomfort, as well as additional tooth damage.
During a root canal treatment, your dentist will first numb the area around your affected tooth. Then, they’ll create an opening in the crown (the flat part of the top) to access the soft tissue within the center of your tooth (pulp). They’ll then remove the infected and damaged pulp from inside the tooth, disinfect the empty space, and reshape the interior of the tooth for filling.
The result is a natural tooth that’s fully functional and aesthetic. It’s an option that saves the tooth from extraction and prevents future problems, such as gum disease or abscesses. It also improves chewing efficiency and maintains proper alignment within your bite. This is all in addition to reducing dental anxiety and boosting your overall oral health.
Prevents the Need for an Extraction
If you have severe tooth decay or infection, a root canal treatment can help you avoid the need for extraction. Without root canal treatment Raleigh NC, you’ll have to get a dental filling or a crown and a prosthetic replacement such as a denture. These don’t feel or function like your natural teeth and may cause problems with the adjacent healthy teeth.
The procedure begins with a local anaesthetic that numbs the affected area. The dentist will then open the damaged tooth and expose the infected pulp and clean it out. The roots and canals are cleaned, disinfected, and then filled and sealed.
Then a crown is attached to the tooth, making it look and function as natural as possible. Choosing between a root canal or extraction will depend on your personal situation and dental health concerns such as age, diabetes, and compromised immunity. It is also important to discuss all the options with your dentist. They can provide you with detailed information and advice to make the right choice for you.
Saves the Bone
The root canal treatment removes infection, relieves pain, and saves the tooth. It can also prevent complications such as gum disease or bone deterioration.
When a damaged tooth is not treated, an infection can develop and cause a dental abscess. This may damage the surrounding teeth and lead to other serious problems.
If a patient neglects their tooth, a root canal becomes necessary to treat the infected tissue and repair the tooth. Without this procedure, the tooth would eventually need to be removed, leaving a gap in the smile and potentially worsening the health of neighboring teeth.
The best way to protect a damaged tooth is by scheduling regular root canal treatment Raleigh NC and dental exams. Professional cleanings help remove bacteria and stains, while routine examinations can catch issues such as infections or cavities early. When a tooth is saved with root canal therapy, it continues to stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss over time. It also avoids the discomfort and shifting of nearby teeth that can result from extraction.
