Root Canal
Root Canal Treatment
Long ago if you had a tooth with a diseased nerve, there was little to no hope that your tooth could be saved. But now with a modern high tech root canal specialist, the dentists at Wurzbach Parkway Family Dental can save that tooth and your smile!
Why Get a Root Canal
There are many advantages to this procedure:
- Prevents you from having your tooth pulled
- Quick—only takes one to two visits
- Little to no discomfort is involved in the procedure
- It removes the infection from the tooth and surrounding bone
It’s very important to catch the need for a root canal early on.
Understanding the symptoms of disease and getting regular cleanings can help ensure this happens. A large part of the root canal cost is covered by insurance, which makes it easier to plan for the procedure. If you believe you may need a root canal, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment today.
More Information On Root Canals
It may be necessary to get this procedure if your:
- Tooth hurts
- Tooth sensitive to heat or cold
- Gums swell
- Tooth shows discoloring
- Tooth cracked or broken
If you have a tooth infection, or severe damage to the pulp, a root canal is recommended. The most common cause is untreated cavities, untreated cracked or broken teeth, and trauma to the teeth and bone.
At Wurzbach Parkway Family Dental, we use the most modern technology to complete your root canal. We use a surgical microscope like used in many neurosurgeries. Your comfort and health is our top priority.
During the first step of the root canal treatment, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth, and you may get a mild sedation such as nitrous oxide.
Then an opening is made through the top or back of the tooth to the pulp chamber. Some of the diseased pulp is removed. The infected tooth is measured through an X-ray or an electric device, so the dentist knows how long the canals are to ensure they are properly cleaned, and how much filling is needed.
The canals are cleaned with antiseptic, which prevents infection. Then they are filled, and a temporary filling is placed in the crown opening to protect the tooth. Usually a permanent crown is made to strengthen the tooth and protect it.
Another term for a root canal is endodontic treatment. This treatment removes the tooth infection from the inside of the tooth.
The pulp extends from the tooth crown to the tip of the roots where it connects to the tissues around the roots. This treatment is needed when the pulp, the soft tissue inside becomes inflamed or when the pulp dies. If it is left untreated, it can cause pain and or abscess.
Your lips and gums may remain numb for a few hours until the anesthetic wears off, but you should be able to continue on with your normal activities. If you had surgery, the sedation effects may last a little longer, so you should rest for a few hours.
Your tooth doesn’t need any special treatment, but make sure you do use good oral hygiene—brush your teeth twice per day, floss daily and visit the dentist for regular check-ups.
