What is The Root Canal Procedure?

There are times that tooth decay becomes so severe that the pulp of the sufferer’s tooth becomes infected. There are also times in which people sustain damage to one of their teeth that causes that tooth to break—leaving it open for bacteria to spread. Whatever the case may be, if the roots of a tooth becomes infected, a root canal needs to be completed to improve the oral health of the patient.

What Is a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy (often referred to as a “root canal”) is a dental procedure that involves the removal of infection from the roots of a tooth. This is a necessary procedure once the pulp of a tooth has become infected and inflamed, and can save the patient a lot of pain and further damage to their oral health.

Why Root Canal Therapy?

While people often cringe when they hear the term “root canal,” the procedure actually isn’t what they should be scared of. Instead, they should be scared of what happens once a tooth becomes infected, and the infection gets worse. Like with a lot of infections in the body, the infection in the roots of a tooth can spread. Not only that, but the infection and decay can become bad enough that the tooth can no longer be saved. If this is the case, the only option the dentist will be left with is to pull the tooth.

To avoid these oral health concerns, it’s best to have the roots of the tooth cleared of all infection.

The Procedure

While it may sound painful, a root canal is actually relatively painless. This is because the dentist provides anesthesia to help ensure their patient feels very little at all. The initial pinch of the shot will be felt but, beyond that, the only feeling should be some pressure. Once the area is numb, the dentist will begin the process of drilling into the tooth, through the enamel and dentin.

When the pulp is properly exposed, they will clear away the infection and clean the canals. The canals are then filled and sealed. Once the procedure is complete, your dentist will fill the tooth to provide structure and support.

The Signs (When You Should Speak with Your Dentist)

You may be unaware that the pulp of your tooth has become infected, but you will more than likely notice the signs. Some of these include:

• Ongoing discomfort or pain.
• Pain while biting and chewing.
• Swelling of the surrounding gums.
• Discoloration of the tooth.
• Sensitivity.

While people are afraid of root canal therapy being painful, not having the procedure completed is actually far more painful—while also causing severe consequences. In order to avoid needing a tooth extracted and other oral health issues caused by leaving the infection of the pulp of a tooth untreated, speak with your dentist when you feel that there may be something wrong with your tooth. They will take a look at your tooth and they will let you know what steps can be taken to resolve the issue.

Inquire about root canals at Iowa Dental Group today.

Interested in learning more about root canals? Read More : What is a Root Canal?