What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is an endodontic procedure used to treat an infected tooth. Root canals are required when a large cavity or dental trauma has destroyed the outer layers of your tooth, exposing the vulnerable “pulp” to oral bacteria.
When this happens, the pulp becomes infected. The pulp is filled with nerves and blood vessels that allow your tooth to stay alive. Over time, it will continue to break down and die, eventually resulting in the loss of your tooth.
A root canal is used to prevent this. In the root canal treatment, your doctor at The Good Dentist will open up the tooth, clean out the interior, disinfect it, and then seal and cap it with a crown to restore the natural shape and appearance of the tooth, and protect it from further harm.
With a root canal from The Good Dentist, you can preserve your tooth for the years to come, and get relief from the pain and discomfort of an infection.
What Are The Signs Of An Infected Tooth?
The most obvious indicator of a tooth infection is a toothache that lasts for more than a day or two. This is usually a sign of a serious cavity or an infected tooth, both of which are serious oral health problems.
In addition to this, you may notice the inflammation and discoloration of gum tissue near the tooth, or the tooth itself may be discolored. The tooth will also likely feel tender and sensitive when eating and chewing, particularly hot and cold foods. If you notice these symptoms, make sure you come into The Good Dentist as soon as possible for a consultation with one of our doctors, and get the help you need.
The Root Canal Process
The root process is quite simple to understand, and it usually takes just a single 1-2 hour appointment to restore your tooth. First, your doctor at The Good Dentist will clean and numb your mouth. You can also be sedated during this process, if desired.
Then, your dentist will use a dental drill to gently remove decayed and damaged tooth material from your tooth, and to create a small opening in the tooth. After this, they will use special dental tools to extract decayed pulp and tooth material from the inside of the tooth, and clean and sanitize the interior of the tooth.
Once the tooth has been cleaned and sanitized, it will be filled with an inert rubbery substance that replaces the missing pulp and strengthens the inside of the tooth. Finally, it will be protected with a temporary crown. You will need to come back to our office to have a permanent crown applied to your tooth.
If you have a painful toothache in Merton, Hartland, North Lake or Pewaukee, you may have an infected tooth, and you might need a root canal from Dr. Ostromecki or Dr. Max at The Good Dentist. Tooth infections are a serious oral health problem, and will only get worse without proper treatment. Learn more below, or call (263) 538-0892 to schedule your root canal in Merton, Hartland, or North Lake.
