root canals in woodstock, ga

Root canal therapy refers to the cleansing and procedure of a severely infected or compromised tooth. The soft inside of the tooth comprising of blood vessels and nerves is called the pulp. When a tooth has a significant cavity or crack, bacteria can seep into the tooth. This can lead to the pulp becoming infected and eventually dying. Left without treatment, the infection can cause swelling and pain in the mouth and jaw. In severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted.

Root Canal Symptoms

There are many symptoms that could reveal the need for root canal therapy. The following problems could be sign that infection has spread the root of your tooth. However, these are just a guideline. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it important to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. The earlier you address potential dental problems, the better chance the dentist has of addressing 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 very painful. This leads to many people avoiding having them done, which can result in the infection becoming more serious in the tooth. If the infection gets too severe, the dentist may not have an option but to extract the tooth. The reality is most dental patients say that a root canal is no more uncomfortable than having dental fillings done. If the dentist suggests for you to have root canal therapy, make it a goal to have it done as quickly as possible.

The initial step of root canal therapy is making the patient pleasant. This is attained through the use of local anesthetic. Similar to dental fillings, the dentist will begin by spreading a numbing gel to the gums. As soon as the gel has time to take effect, anesthetic is injected into the gums to impede pain receptors. Be sure to alert your dentist if you start to feel pain during the course of the process.

Then, the pulpectomy is performed. The dentist will produce an opening in the tooth at the crown to achieve access to the inside of the tooth. Through this opening, they 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. Shortly after the tooth is prepared for filling, the inside of the tooth will be cleansed and disinfected.

The roots and tooth cavity will be filled with either short-term or permanent filler. Temporary filler is chosen to let the swelling in the tissue decrease, and stays in place roughly a week. Teeth that are given temporary filler are often protected with a cap up until the follow up to fill it permanently. Once the long-term filler is placed, the tooth will be sealed off.

Post Treatment Care

Root canal therapy is highly effective when the tooth is restored properly. Your dentist may schedule a follow up appointment a couple of weeks following the treatment to observe the recovery process. It is imperative that the patient practice excellent oral health following the procedure. Cleaning your teeth and dental flossing daily are the best way to preserve a healthy mouth at home. Regularly keep your routine dental appointments, because your dentist may use that time to follow up on the treated teeth.