Understanding Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is a crucial dental procedure aimed at removing infected tissue from within a tooth. This process prevents the infection from advancing, ensuring the health of your tooth and mouth. Thanks to local anesthesia, the procedure is comfortable. The primary objective is to extract the compromised tooth structure, get rid of the infected nerve tissue, and finally seal the tooth using gutta percha. A root canal can be likened to cleaning out pencil lead and sealing it.
How Root Canals Work
Teeth contain multiple canals, each housing nerve fibers and blood vessels. The procedure involves meticulous cleaning of each canal before sealing. Front teeth typically have one nerve canal, but molars usually house at least three. The number of nerve canals determines the procedure’s duration and the required appointments. Once done, some tenderness might be felt, but it’s generally an improvement from any pre-existing pain. Post-procedure instructions will be provided to ensure comfort. We often recommend crowning for molars that undergo a root canal to ensure complete protection.
At Taher Family Dental, we prioritize your oral health. If you need dental treatment, contact us today!
Key Root Canal Insights
Root canals are common dental solutions designed for infected or damaged tooth pulp. The pulp, found inside the tooth, contains nerves and blood vessels. When it gets infected, it often results in pain, swelling, and further infection. Root canal therapy involves removing this pulp, followed by cleaning and shaping the inner canals, and then restoring the tooth with a filling or crown. With over 15 million root canals performed annually in the U.S., they’re a trusted solution for many.
Why Root Canals?
- They save teeth from extraction.
- Effective in pain and discomfort relief.
- Prevents infection spread.
- Enhances chewing ability.
Considerations
- They might be costlier than other dental solutions.
- The process might be more time-consuming.
- Not always successful in every case.
When considering root canals, ensure you consult with a qualified dentist like those at Taher Family Dental to guide your decision.