A root canal is a procedure that saves a tooth whose internal pulp has become infected. In this procedure, the pulp that contains the nerves and blood vessels are extracted and the emptied chamber inside the tooth is cleaned and sealed. If the root canal is not performed, the pulp’s infection could spread to the tissues that surround the tooth and form abscesses.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
A Tooth-Saving Procedure
Root canal treatment has a very high success rate. As long as you maintain good oral hygiene habits, your restored tooth could last a lifetime.
Less Invasive Than Other Options
Root canal treatment allows patients to avoid extraction. When a tooth is extracted, the neighboring teeth shift or tip over towards the gap. This can affect the bite as well as the ability to chew food.
Virtually Painless
Root canal treatment eliminates all of the infection from the inner pulp of the tooth. Root canal therapy doesn’t require any incisions, sutures, or stitches. Patients find the procedure to be nearly painless.
Minimal Recovery Time
Root canal treatment offers a quick recovery. You will likely be back to your regular schedule quickly.
What Happens During a Root Canal Treatment?
When a cavity grows too large or a cracked tooth is left untreated, bacteria may enter the pulp tissue and stimulate an inflammatory response. This inflammation may spread throughout the tooth, resulting in an abscess. It is a pus-filled pocket that forms inside the tooth. If the abscess is not treated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone.
During a root canal treatment, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and sterilized. The dentist then fills the root canals with a material called gutta-percha. A crown or filling is placed on the tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength.
What Should I Expect After a Root Canal Treatment?
After your root canal treatment, your tooth may be sensitive for a couple of days. To relieve this discomfort, we will prescribe over-the-counter or prescription medications. Your tooth may feel slightly different from your other teeth after your root canal treatment is completed.
Peoria Family Dentistry, located in Peoria, AZ, has the best dentists equipped with the latest amenities that enable them to provide the best dental care. Call us at (623) 552-4665 and schedule an appointment with our dentist.
