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Our teeth are meant to last a life-time! Years ago, infected teeth were simply pulled (extracted), which could negatively affect the adjacent teeth. However, with the advancements in the field of dentistry, infected teeth can be potentially saved through proper root canal therapy followed by good oral hygiene.
When a tooth’s nerve is infected, root canal therapy is required. The pulp (the live tissue inside the tooth), nerves, germs, and any decay are removed in order to save the tooth, and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated dental materials that restore the tooth to full function.
A root canal is the therapy of choice for saving a tooth that would otherwise die and have to be extracted. Many patients assume that eliminating a problem tooth is the best treatment, but what they don’t realize is that extracting (pulling) a tooth is more expensive in the long run and can cause serious difficulties for surrounding teeth.
Root canal therapy is quite effective, though subsequent infections may require a tooth to be retreated or extracted.
The pulp (the live tissue inside the tooth), nerves, germs, and any decay are removed in order to save the tooth, and the resulting space is filled with special, medicated dental materials that restore the tooth to full function.
A root canal is the therapy of choice for saving a tooth that would otherwise die and have to be extracted. Many patients assume that eliminating a problem tooth is the best treatment, but what they don’t realize is that extracting (pulling) a tooth is more expensive in the long run and can cause serious difficulties for surrounding teeth.
Root canal therapy is quite effective, though subsequent infections may require a tooth to be retreated or extracted.Â
A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist).
While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva.
An access opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments.
Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.
We love all of our patients here at Magnolia Modern Dental! What Our Patients Are Saying:
We love all of our patients here at Magnolia Modern Dental! What Our Patients Are Saying:
A dentist can perform a root canal procedure in one or several appointments. A rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth while it is numb to keep the affected site dry and free of saliva. On top of the tooth, an access opening is formed, and a series of root canal files are inserted one by one, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If there is tooth decay, it will be removed with special dental devices as well. Then the roots and internal cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with specific dental materials. The opening on top of the tooth will be filled with a filling. A crown (cap) should be placed on all teeth that have had root canal therapy. This will protect the affected tooth, prevent it from fracturing, and restore it to its full function.
Your tooth may remain sensitive after treatment, but this will fade as the inflammation subsides and the tooth heals. After the procedure, post-op instructions will be given to you. Practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist on a regular basis can help with the longevity of the treated tooth.
