Saving Your Tooth and Your Smile
Root canals often have a bad reputation, but at Archstone Dental & Orthodontics - Alta Mere, we want to change that perception while saving you from the need to lose a tooth! Root canal therapy is a simple, effective treatment that can preserve your tooth and alleviate pain caused by infection or damage.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat a tooth that is severely decayed or infected, typically involving the removal of the infected pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) and sealing the tooth to prevent further damage. It’s a safe and reliable treatment that helps preserve the tooth’s structure and prevents the infection from spreading.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it could mean the nerve of your tooth is exposed or infected, and a root canal might be necessary:
- Severe toothache: Persistent pain in your tooth or jaw that doesn’t go away.
- Pain when chewing or when pressure is applied: Sensitivity or pain when biting down or applying pressure to the tooth.
- Prolonged sensitivity to temperatures: Uncomfortable sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers even after you stop eating or drinking.
- Dark discoloration of the tooth: A tooth that appears darker or has a different color than the rest of your teeth.
- Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums: Gums near the affected tooth may swell, become tender, or develop a pimple-like bump.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit us as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent further complications and help save your tooth.
What to Expect from the Procedure?
At Archstone Dental & Orthodontics, we strive to make your root canal experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Here’s how the procedure typically goes:
Initial Examination and X-ray
We’ll take an X-ray of the affected tooth to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of treatment.
1
Local Anesthesia
We will numb the area around the infected tooth to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
2
Cleaning and Removing the Infected Tissue
The infected pulp is carefully removed from inside the tooth. This step eliminates the source of the pain and infection.
3
Sealing the Tooth
Once the pulp is removed, the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and sealed to prevent future infections.
4
Restoration
After the root canal is completed, the tooth may require a crown or filling to restore its strength and function.
5
Restore Your Tooth’s Health Today
Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care during your root canal therapy. Comfort is one of our top priorities, and we aim to make your treatment feel as routine as a filling.
Don’t wait until the infection spreads or the pain worsens. Call Archstone Dental & Orthodontics - Alta Mere, today to schedule your root canal consultation. We’ll assess your tooth, discuss treatment options, and take care of everything to help you feel like yourself again.
Frequently Asked Questions
