When damage or decay has reached the inner portion of a tooth, root canal therapy is performed to save the tooth. Root canals have a reputation of discomfort that too often keeps patients from treatment.
Our doctors work to educate their patients to understand what a root canal is and why it is so important. Without a root canal, a severely damaged tooth will result in tooth loss. Our doctors perform root canal treatment to save these teeth.
A root canal is performed when the damage or infection has worked its way into the innermost part of the tooth (the pulp), the roots and/or surrounding bone. The infected area is cleaned out and treated before filling the cavity and capping with a crown. This treatment keeps the roots intact to maintain the integrity of the tooth and restore functionality of a healthy bite.
The alternative to a root canal is extraction. Our doctors work to avoid this route in order to prevent additional oral health problems.
Routine cleanings and exams are preventative measures used to minimize the need for root canals. Our doctors encourage their patients to get regular check-ups twice a year in order to detect dental problems before the pain begins. Root canal signs and symptoms include:
These symptoms do not always measure the need for a root canal, but anything out of the ordinary that lasts for more than a few days deserves the attention of a dental exam. Don’t let your fear of the dentist create severe problems that require intensive procedures.