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ROOT CANALS
If a cavity is extremely severe, root canal therapy may be required. Root canal therapy is a procedure in which Dr. Kachalia or Dr. Duncan will thoroughly clean the root of an infected tooth and remove the pulp and nerves. Removing the pulp and nerves is nothing to worry about; once a tooth has fully emerged from the gums, the pulp and nerves are no longer vital for health and function.
It is best to have a root canal procedure performed as soon as possible. If you wait too long, a tooth extraction may be required, and the infection can spread to the surrounding bone causing extreme pain and discomfort.
What are the signs that a root canal is needed?
There are two types of veneers that are commonly used; porcelain veneers and composite resin veneers. Porcelain veneers are more durable and resist stains better. The properties of the material also help to create a very natural look. Unlike porcelain veneers, composite resin veneers are not made in a laboratory, but instead directly applied to the teeth. They typically have a shorter life span and are less expensive.
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Severe pain while chewing
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You have a toothache that wakes you up or keeps you at night
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Teeth that are highly sensitive to hot or cold, with the sensitivity lingering for some time.
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Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
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Swollen gums in the area of the infected tooth
What does the root canal treatment involve?
The first step involves accessing the pulp chamber to remove the pulp. Once this step is completed, the root canal will be thoroughly cleaned.
In some situations, your dentist may decide to complete the procedure in multiple visits. If this is the case, a temporary filling will be placed to protect the tooth, and upon your return, the dentist will clean the root canal and pulp chamber once again. Then, the dentist will place a permanent filling and/or crown over the tooth.
Root canal therapy is well known for restoring teeth. If successful, a tooth can last for years to come after a root canal procedure. Additionally, the crown or filling placed at the completion of the procedure makes it hard to notice by others that you had the treatment.