Getting To The Root of a Root Canal

Endodontic therapy, or a root canal, is a therapy that aims to relieve an infection in the pulp of a tooth. When the pulp or nerve of a tooth is damaged it breaks down and begins to decay within the tooth. This is called an abscessed tooth. This is often the result of a crack in the tooth, large fillings or having many treatments done on one tooth.

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may have an abscessed tooth.

• A darkened tooth.

• Swelling and pain in gums near said tooth.

• Severe tooth pain (worse when chewing, or exposed to temperature extremes).

During the actual procedure a dentist will anesthetize the area surrounding the tooth, numbing the nerves of the infected tooth. A small hole will be drilled into the tooth. Then the infected nerve, pulp tissue and any subsequent bacteria will be removed from the tooth. The interior of the tooth’s roots will be filed down and rinsed out to remove any trace or risk of infection. A crown is then often placed on the tooth to protect and seal it.

The pain or sensitivity that comes with a treated tooth can often be relieved with over the counter pain medications. You can reduce your risk of reinfection by limiting your chewing on the treated side until you are completely healed. Ultimately, the procedure should relieve you of the pain you were experiencing as a result of infection.

This procedure has a very high success rate with more than 90% of patients having no problem with their treated tooth up to ten years after.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of an abscessed tooth call Dr. Arzegar today and treat the root of the problem!