What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure that involves the removal of diseased materials such as blood vessels, nerves and other tissues from the interior of a tooth by a dentist.
Root canals are a way of preventing damaged teeth from dying and needing to be extracted to preserve your oral and overall health.
Dr. Mahler begins by removing diseased tissues from the interior of the tooth. Next, he cleans and disinfects the inner chamber of the tooth and fills it with materials to prevent infection.
To finish off the procedure, the tooth is then capped with a dental restoration such as a dental crown.
Why a Root Canal May Be Recommended
Root canal treatments help to relieve painful symptoms associated with a damaged and diseased tooth and will save your natural tooth structure from needing to be removed. This procedure may also limit the need for more extensive and invasive dental work in the future.
By removing the decay and bacteria from the inner tooth, your dentist can help halt the spread of infection and restore the healthy portion of the tooth.
Most patients who have root canals experience little discomfort or pain, and end up with a restored tooth. With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last a lifetime.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms below, contact us. Our dental team will be able to diagnose the issue and determine treatment.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- An abscess (or pimple) on the gums
- Swelling and/or tenderness
- Severe toothache pain