A root canal is the natural cavity in the center of the tooth. Within this cavity, there is a group of nerves and soft tissues. A root canal is indicated when the nerve tissue inside your tooth dies or is dying, and the area around the root of the tooth becomes infected, inflamed, and sometimes swollen.
Why Choose Root Canal Therapy (Endodontics)?
The two options for treating an infected pulp as described above are either root canal therapy to save the tooth, or an extraction to remove the tooth. Root canal therapy is the ideal treatment to maintain the ability to function properly with that tooth and to preserve the bone around it. Extracting the tooth will lead to bone loss, shifting of other teeth, poor function, and poor esthetics.
The most common symptoms of a tooth infection or abscessed tooth are:
- Random throbbing pain
- Pain with pressure
- Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold
- A fistula (small bubble of pus) on the gums
The Root Canal Therapy Procedure
The root canal procedure will make you feel much better. It involves cleaning out the pulp canals in the roots of your teeth and sealing them off so that infection can no longer exist in that space. It is essentially getting a filling for the roots of your teeth. The root canal therapy is performed using profound anesthesia.
There are several reasons why root canals would be indicated:
- Severe decay/cavities
- Trauma or injury to the tooth
- Infection from periodontal disease
A crown is recommended to protect the tooth from fracturing after the root canal treatment is complete.
If you are experiencing dental pain, do not keep it to yourself! Share your symptoms with Dr. John Han during a cost-free dentistry consultation at Expressions Dental Care.