Root canal therapy is the process of removing the infected pulp from the root canal cavity of a severely infected tooth. When a tooth is severely decayed due to cavities or an unattended injury, the infection may advance all the way to the pulp of the tooth. In such a situation, the dentist uses this procedure as a last resort method of saving a tooth, which otherwise needs extraction.
Some of the common causes of a root canal infection are as follows:
The symptoms include pain, swelling, and numbness around the infected tooth. The inflammation could become so severe that it gradually affects the surrounding gums, causing bleeding and the formation of pus. The particular tooth would show high sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and chewing food would become increasingly difficult.
The entire procedure may require a few visits to the dentist’s office based on the severity of the condition. At first, the dentist would examine the infected tooth and take an x-ray of it. Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the tooth.
As the anesthesia takes effect, the dentist would make a small hole on the tooth using high-precision dental equipment. The inflamed pulp would then be removed using small dental files of different dimensions. The root canal cavity is cleaned, and any debris from within is removed.
The cavity would be filled with a biocompatible material to arrest the infection and sealed off using a temporary filling. A tooth that has undergone root canal therapy could become weak over time and could crack or crumble. Hence, a crown would usually be used to hold it in place and prevent the failure of the tooth.
Root canal therapies are said to have a high success rate. It is one of the best ways to save a badly infected tooth and prevent its failure. It helps to get rid of the pain, infection, and the chances of the infection spreading to the gums. It restores the natural biting ability and aesthetics as well.
Ralston Creek Dentistry, located in Arvada, CO, has the best technologies and expert dentists who offer patients the best dental care services. Dial (303) 422-2502 and schedule a consultation with the dentist to know more about root canal therapy and other dental services provided at the dentistry.
