The Root Canal Therapy Procedure

Once we have confirmed the status of a tooth with an examination and an x-ray, we can choose the solution. If the infection cannot be removed and the cavity taken care of with a filling, we will proceed with root canal therapy. The procedure itself is not painful. Usually the pain is prior to the procedure. The tooth and surrounding tissue are numbed with a local anesthetic. If you are experiencing anxiety, we can introduce a mild sedation to make the process easier for you. The next step is to drill a small hole to have access to the pulp chamber. Then the infectedpulp is removed. This process is called a pulpotomy. After all the pulp is removed the root will be slightly enlarged and totally disinfected. Then a rubbery like substance called gutta-percha is put into the root canal and the pulp chamber. The tooth is then sealed and the natural tooth has been saved. Also, the pain is gone! If the tooth has been weakened or has a crack, we may want to consider protecting the tooth with the addition of a dental crown.

Extending the Life Expectancy of Your Root Canal by developing Good Oral Hygiene Habits

It is possible that directly after your root canal therapy procedure you might experience some mild discomfort or pain that an over the counter pain reliever can resolve. Otherwise, look in the mirror and admire your root canal. In fact, you can’t see it! No real additional recovery procedures are necessary. Now we’ll will discuss possibly a dental crown and how to avoid any more of these procedures. Since the tooth in no longer alive it will over time become fragile. A crown will be suggested in a reasonable timeframe. This crown will continue to protect a natural tooth with a natural root structure.

Depending on the cause of the infected tooth we will still take the opportunity to address your oral hygiene habits at home. The dental industry strongly suggests that we all brush our teeth twice a day, for two minutes at each time. Then flossing at least once a day is the basis for a good oral hygiene practice at home. This will remove the bacteria carrying plaque daily not allowing it to form on the teeth. The plaque is the culprit behind cavities and gum disease. This might have been the reason behind the necessity for your root canal. We will also encourage you to establish appointments every six months for evaluations, x-rays and regular professional teeth cleaning. Prevention is the ticket in the dental business. We like to see patients with healthy teeth and gums. We are also big proponents of helping you keep your natural teeth for your lifetime. By working together, we can extend the life of your root canal and keep it looking natural for years. If you follow these guidelines and continue with good habits not only will your natural teeth look and last longer, but your root canal will as well.