Unfortunately, sometimes our teeth deteriorate to the point that the root can never be saved. The good news is, that our teeth are capable of surviving even after nerve eradication. Traditionally, teeth with impaired pulps were removed. However, with the help of new technology today, dentists now have a safe solution for saving your teeth and maintaining a natural smile.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment is a procedure that involves removing a tooth with dead or infected pulp, disinfecting, and sealing the root canal to prevent the spread of infection or damage. Later placing a crown over the tooth to strengthen it. The pulp tissue provides the tooth with nutrients and nerves, it is found inside of each tooth. Pulp tissue can die if damaged or diseased; causes could be a repetitive dental procedure on a tooth, deep tooth decay, or traumatic injuries. Gum diseases may also cause root canal problems resulting in root Damaged Pulp Tissue canal treatment.
What are the Symptoms of a Damaged Pulp Tissue?
Symptoms vary differently from one individual to another. However, most common symptoms of a damaged or injured pulp include:
– Oversensitivity of teeth with hot or cold food and beverages.
– Pain when chewing or biting.
– Tenderness to the lymph nodes.
– Discoloured tooth.
– Facial swelling.
Such symptoms may also indicate signs of other oral health problems. They may not necessarily require a root canal treatment. However, there can be instances where no symptoms were seen, and the infection can only be detected during your regular visits to the dentist.
Why is the Treatment Necessary?
The tooth cannot just heal naturally therefore when left untreated the infection could cause severe pain, an abscess forming at the root of the tooth, and deterioration of the underlying bone tissue. Excessive delay of treatment may make it difficult for the dentist to save the tooth. This may cause the infection to spread to the neighboring teeth and potentially result in swelling of the face and neck, fevers, illness, and also blood poisoning.
What is The Procedure for a Root Canal?
Root canal procedure is usually simple with minimal or no discomfort. The following is a step-by-step guide to how the procedure is done:
– An opening is made through the top of the tooth down to the pulp chamber.
– Dead or the damaged pulp is drawn out, and the root canal is irrigated and medicated.
– A temporary filling is placed at the opening of the tooth or left open to drain for some days.
– The temporary filling gets removed, and the pulp chamber and root canal are then cleaned and filled.
– Finally, place the crown on the tooth.
During root canal procedure, our dental surgeon at Carrum Downs Dental ensures that the root canal is properly cleaned and disinfected and that all the infection drawn out is removed around the tooth and from the canal. This prevents re-infection of the tooth.
Do I Need an Endodontist for My Root Canal Treatment?
An endodontist specializes in root canal treatment; nevertheless, all dentists are skilled in performing this treatment. Only patients with rare or unusual circumstances are referred to an endodontist. A smile-approved dentist can also treat a root canal. At Carrum Downs Dental, we are well-equipped with all dental specialists to ensure that our patients receive high-quality dental services. Schedule an appointment with us to begin the journey of restoring that beautiful smile with a root canal procedure.
