A root canal is a procedure used to help save a tooth from decay or infection. At Tier One Dental, we perform root canals to remove the damaged area of the tooth and then seal it off to prevent further damage and decay. While the procedure can be intimidating, the restored tooth can last a lifetime with proper care. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the mouth and even cause tooth loss.
The Procedure for Root Canals Treatment
Although every patient is different, root canals are routine and pain-free procedures. Before the treatment begins, the dentist will administer the appropriate anesthetic to ensure your comfort. Next, our dentist will create a small opening through the top of the tooth to access the inner chamber. This inner chamber houses the pulp, which is composed of soft tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. Once they have access, our dentist will remove the diseased tissue from the canal and thoroughly clean the area. Finally, our dentist will fill the canal with gutta-percha, a rubber-like material that will help seal the tooth and prevent future infection. A temporary filling will be placed in the cavity to seal it until the next visit.
After your procedure, you may experience some soreness or sensitivity for a few days. Thankfully, over-the-counter medication should help with any discomfort. We also recommend brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing daily, as this will help prevent additional decay or infection around the affected area. If your tooth becomes sensitive or painful, contact our office immediately to schedule an appointment.
The Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
A root canal is performed to save an infected tooth from extraction. A root canal addresses infections caused by severe decay or disease that have reached the tooth’s nerve and pulp chamber. By doing so, the root canal treatment prevents the spread of the infection that would have caused abscesses, tooth loss, or other health issues. Such potential infection spread would have necessitated the extraction of the infected tooth, something a root canal treatment could prevent. The treatment also relieves the patient of the pain caused by such internal infection and the swelling it causes.
If you are experiencing pain, sensitivity, or other symptoms, visit Tier One Dental at 279 TX-46, Seguin, TX 78155, or call (830) 372-2852 to schedule an appointment soon as possible. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to severe complications and the need for more extensive treatment in the future.