Have you ever had an infection in your tooth? It probably caused frustration, especially if you felt overwhelmed and didn’t know where to start when it came to getting the care and treatment you needed. Luckily, the team at Marshall Family Dental is here to provide some helpful information on treatment!
A root canal is one of the best and most effective dental procedures for infections or cavities in the teeth. While completely removing a damaged tooth is an option, it can result in more time and money spent at the dentist. A root canal will save your tooth while simultaneously preserving your natural smile. Many patients worry getting a root canal will cause intense pain, but this is not the case! Due to updated dental technology, patients will have little to no pain during the procedure. It may end up being more painful trying to live your life with an infected tooth!
Why might a root canal be necessary, and how can it help? Your natural teeth contain a soft pulp core. It consists of blood vessels, soft tissue, and nerves. If a deep cavity develops in one of your teeth, bacteria can enter the pulp and cause irritation and infection. Left untreated for too long, this can result in bone loss, pulp death, or loss of the entire tooth. This type of infection is characterized by toothaches, swelling, and sensitivity to foods and drinks that are either too cold or too hot, among other symptoms.
Your dentist will take x-rays of your teeth to begin the root canal process. You will then be provided with a local anesthetic to numb the area and ease any pain. All tooth decay will be removed, and an opening will be made in the crown of the tooth through which the root canal will be performed. Dental tools will then remove all infected pulp from the root. The tooth chamber will then be thoroughly cleaned and dried. Before you know it, your tooth will be filled and as good as new!
A crown will be placed by your dentist over your newly filled root to restore your tooth or teeth to their original function and prevent further damage. Generally, crowns are made of porcelain and look just like the natural teeth around them. If you keep up with your oral hygiene and come to the dentist every six months for exams and cleanings, your newly restored tooth will last a lifetime!
Do you think you may need a root canal or have questions for our staff? Call Marshall Family Dental at (903) 938-8315. We would be happy to help!