ROOT CANALS AND ENDODONTICS CHATTANOOGA
Root canal therapy refers to the cleansing and procedure of a severely infected or weakened tooth. The soft inside of the tooth containing blood vessels and nerves is referred to as the pulp. When a tooth has a significant cavity or crack, bacteria can seep into the tooth. This can create the pulp becoming infected and ultimately dying. Left without treatment, the problem can cause swelling and pain in the mouth and jaw. In severe cases, the tooth may have to be extracted.
Root Canal Symptoms
There are a number of symptoms that could show the need for root canal therapy. The following problems could be sign that infection has spread the root of your tooth. Having said that, these are just a guideline. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it important to arrange an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. The quicker you address potential dental problems, the greater chance the dentist has of repairing your teeth.
- Severe tooth pain
- Sensitivity to cold and hot that stays after exposure
- Darkening of the tooth enamel
- Swelling of the gums around the tooth
- An abscess or large pimple near the tooth
What To Expect During A Root Canal
There is a popular belief that root canals are considerably painful. This leads to countless people avoiding having them done, which can lead to the infection becoming much worse in the tooth. If the infection gets too severe, the dentist may not have a choice but to extract the tooth. The truth is most dental patients say that a root canal is no more unpleasant than having dental fillings done. If the dentist recommends for you to have root canal therapy, make it a priority to have it done as swiftly as possible.
The first step of root canal treatment is making the patient pleasant. This is done through the use of local anesthetic. Similar to dental fillings, the dentist will begin by using a numbing gel to the gums. Once the gel has time to take effect, anesthetic is injected into the gums to block pain receptors. Be sure to notify your dentist if you begin to feel discomfort during the course of the process.
Next, the pulpectomy is executed. The dentist will create an opening in the tooth at the crown to gain entry to the inside of the tooth. Through this opening, she will extract the infected pulp from the tooth. Once removed, unique files are used to clear out and broaden the canals in preparation to be filled. After the tooth is prepared for filling, the inside of the tooth can be cleaned and disinfected.
The roots and tooth cavity may be filled with either short-term or permanent filler. Temporary filler is utilized to let the swelling in the cells go down, and remains in place approximately a week. Teeth that receive temporary filler are regularly protected with a cap until the follow up to fill it permanently. Once the long-term filler is set, the tooth will be sealed off.
Post Treatment Care
Root canal treatment is tremendously successful anytime the tooth is reconstructed properly. Your dentist may book a follow up visit a couple of weeks after the procedure to observe the restoration process. It is necessary that the patient practice superior oral health following the treatment. Cleaning your teeth and dental flossing daily are the best way to preserve a healthy mouth at home. Be sure to keep your standard dental appointments, as your dentist will use that time to follow up on the treated teeth.