When a tooth becomes severely decayed, a cavity can form on the biting surface of the tooth. If this cavity reaches the pulp, which is the living tissue inside of a tooth, then root canal treatment will need to take place. Root canal treatment, or simply a root canal, is a procedure in which the pulp is removed from the inside of the tooth - because it has become decayed - in order to preserve the remaining enamel. Peak Endodontics provides root canals for patients suffering from tooth decay in order to restore their smile to their former strength and aesthetic. Root canal treatment is a routine procedure that can be tailored to your time schedule.What Are The Symptoms Associated With Needing a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment usually comes as a result of a patient experiencing toothache and swelling of the gums. The tooth may look visibly discolored, which is the decay itself affecting the tooth. Our dentist will have a look at the tooth, and our team should be able to see where the decay has impacted the tooth. Sensitivity to hot and cold food will also be a present symptom, as well as headaches and a possible bump in the gum below the affected tooth. Patients will feel mild to moderate pain when decay has reached the pulp, which is why it is important to have root canal treatment. A root canal also needs to take place to remove the bacteria from the mouth, and prevent it from spreading further.
What Happens During a Root Canal?
An x-ray will need to take place in order to confirm the need for a root canal. The x-ray should reflect that the decay has reached the pulp. Otherwise, a less invasive procedure can take place, like an inlay, an onlay, or a filling. Local anesthesia is used by our dentist to numb the area in which the root canal will be taking place. They will also construct a rubber dam around the tooth to prevent fluids from invading the procedure.
A hole is drilled into the tooth so the dentist can see and access the pulp. Using x-rays during the surgery, the dentist will be able to remove the pulp from the inside of the tooth and remove any decay and bacteria, while also flushing the whole canal to ensure it is clean. Then, our team will place gutta percha, a rubber substance, to replace the pulp. The tooth will have a temporary filling placed on top, as a permanent crown will be placed on another date once the swelling and soreness has ceased. The entire procedure can take up to an hour, and possibly longer, depending on the difficulty of removing the tooth decay.
FAQs
When do I need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if the pulp inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, a cracked tooth, or trauma. Symptoms include severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling in the surrounding gums. Our dental team will evaluate your condition to determine if a root canal is necessary.
Does a root canal hurt?
Modern root canal treatments are designed to be as comfortable as possible. With the use of local anesthesia, most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure. After the treatment, some mild soreness or discomfort is normal, but it can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. If you experience significant pain, contact our office for assistance.
How long does a root canal procedure take?
A root canal procedure typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes to complete. In some cases, multiple visits may be required, depending on the complexity of the case and the condition of the tooth. Our dental team will provide you with a detailed treatment plan to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
Book an Appointment
Peak Endodontics can perform your next root canal treatment, and our team will make the root canal as quick and efficient as possible. With our professionals, our training, and our experience, we believe that our team is the best option for you. To book an appointment now, contact our office at 425-358-9033.