A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat an infected tooth. A root canal involves removing the infected tissue from the inside of the tooth, disinfecting the tooth, and then sealing it to protect it from future infection.
book onlineWhat Is A Root Canal?
Simply put, a root canal is a procedure where a diseased or damaged tooth is disinfected and then restored with a crown or filling to prevent future damage and restore the tooth to full function. A root canal may be recommended if tooth decay is present or if a cavity has already gone untreated for some time and has worsened.
During a root canal procedure, the canals will be cleaned while the patient is under anesthesia in order to ensure no pain or discomfort occurs and to ensure the procedure is safe for the patient overall. In the event that the patient is experiencing pain, we will begin immediate treatment through a root canal in order to save the tooth from being extracted in the future.
The canals are filled with a rubber-like substance before being sealed off to prevent any further damage to the inside of the tooth. Once the canals are filled, we will place a crown over the tooth in order to protect it from any future damage or potential breakage. This restoration process ensures that the tooth remains fully functional for years to come.
What Causes The Need For A Root Canal?
The inside of a tooth contains soft tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. When a tooth becomes infected or abscessed, it’s usually because bacteria has gotten inside the roots and into the pulp chamber. This is very painful! If left untreated, the tissue will break down, the bone will become damaged, and eventually, the tooth could have to be removed. However, root canal therapy can save the tooth by cleaning out the infection and restoring the natural shape of the roots.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of an infected tooth, call us right away to schedule an appointment for an exam and consultation. We’ll examine your teeth, take X-rays, and determine the best treatment option for your unique situation. If a root canal is the best option for you, we’ll discuss the procedure with you beforehand, so you know what to expect and can prepare accordingly.
The Procedure
A root canal is a treatment used to fix a tooth that is infected or severely damaged due to decay or injury. It involves the removal of the diseased tooth pulp and nerve tissue, followed by the cleaning and sealing of the empty canals. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected, and an abscess may form. While root canals are highly effective, some patients avoid receiving one due to the common misconception that the procedure is extremely painful. However, advances in dentistry have made root canals relatively painless procedures. In fact, many patients report that the pain of an infected tooth is worse than that of a treated root-canal-treated tooth. If you’re experiencing significant tooth pain, contact our office today to schedule your appointment. Untreated infections can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Our team is dedicated to restoring your health and comfort with compassionate care and advanced endodontic treatments.
For the best dental care, visit Charles Street Dental at 121 Charles St S Boston, MA, or call 617-226-2822 to schedule an appointment.