What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is an endodontics procedure that is the best way to save an infected tooth. This treatment will remove the source of the infection, restore the interior of your tooth, and protect your tooth for many years after the procedure.
Tooth infections occur as a result of oral trauma that breaks or cracks a tooth. They also occur as a result of advanced decay that eats through the hard outer layers of the tooth and causes a very large cavity. Root canal therapy repairs this damage by creating an opening in the infected tooth and cleaning the inside with special tools. This eliminates the infection and fully restores the tooth. A root canal will protect a tooth for 10+ years, and can last a lifetime.
The Root Canal Treatment Process
Cleaning and Numbing
First, your tooth will be cleaned and the area will be numbed by a member of the team at Mount Pleasant Endodontics.
Opening of the Tooth
Your endodontist will then use a drill to trim away the damaged enamel and to create an opening. The interior of your infected tooth will be cleaned through this opening.
Cleaning and Sanitizing
Your endodontist will extract damaged and decayed material from inside your tooth and then they will flush and clean the interior to neutralize any remaining bacteria.
Tooth Restoration
The inside of the tooth is then filled with a biocompatible material that replaces the missing pulp. Then it is sealed with a temporary crown or filling. You may need to return for a follow-up visit to receive a temporary crown.
Do I actually need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if:
- You have a toothache that lasts for several days
- Your tooth is sensitive to hot or cold food or drinks
- You feel pain or discomfort when chewing
If you are suffering from any of these indicators, click the button below to schedule a consultation.