An infection that gets into the pulp inside your tooth can be excruciating. If you suffer from this severe tooth pain, visit us. Dr. Blanco excels at performing root canal procedures that save your tooth, relieve pain, and restore function. To benefit from expert root canals delivered with unmatched quality of service at affordable rates, call LB Dental P.C. today or book an appointment online.
A root canal is a dental procedure that is used to remove infected or damaged tissue (pulp) from inside the tooth. This procedure is typically done when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as:
Deep cavities: When a tooth is not properly cleaned, bacteria can build up in the tooth, leading to a deep cavity that can infect the pulp.
Trauma: A tooth can be damaged by a blow to the mouth, which can cause the pulp to become injured or infected.
Cracks or chips: A cracked or chipped tooth can also allow bacteria to enter the pulp and cause an infection.
Repeated dental procedures: having multiple dental procedures done on the same tooth can lead to an infection.
Symptoms of a infected or inflamed pulp include severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling and tenderness in the gums, and sometimes a small pimple on the gums near the affected tooth.
The root canal procedure aims to remove the infected or inflamed pulp, disinfect the inside of the tooth, and then fill and seal the space. After the root canal treatment, the tooth is usually restored with a crown to protect it and restore its function.
It's important to note that a root canal is not a reversible procedure, and it's performed to save the natural tooth and prevent the need of an extraction. It's also important to maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to ensure the longevity of the treated tooth.
A root canal involves creating a tiny hole in the infected tooth. Your LB Dental P.C. dentist removes the infected tissue through this hole, including the dental pulp. Sometimes they remove the tooth’s roots as well.
You only need roots for the tooth to grow in and feel hot and cold sensations. Removing the roots from an adult tooth won’t cause any harm to the tooth and might be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading.
After removing the pulp (and roots when required), your dentist cleans the tooth thoroughly. They might also give you antibiotics to eliminate stray bacteria and prevent reinfection.
To complete your root canal, your dentist seals the hole and the area that used to contain the dental pulp. They use gutta-percha to seal the tooth — a rubber-like substance that helps stabilize the tooth.
Root canals have a reputation as painful procedures, but the LB Dental P.C. team uses several techniques to ensure minimal discomfort and anxiety.
The LB Dental P.C. team uses a filling or crown to strengthen and protect the treated tooth. Fillings and crowns are available in colors that match your natural teeth, so they blend in seamlessly.
Patients appreciate the natural appearance of their teeth after a root canal procedure.
To get prompt treatment for painful tooth infections, call LB Dental P.C. and ask about root canals or book an appointment online today.