Root canal treatment is used when the interior of a tooth has become damaged due to an infection or untreated tooth decay. When decay and deterioration have reached this deeply inside a tooth, a root canal procedure might be the only method for saving the tooth from extraction.
A tooth experiences a root canal infection when its inner pulp becomes damaged by decay or when a bacterial infection manages to develop in a tooth’s interior or at its root tip. A root canal infection can be identified by the following symptoms:
- Severe toothache
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods
- Swollen and tender gums
- Abscess on the gums
When providing root canal treatment, we start by placing a rubber sheet around the tooth. This will prevent the infection from spreading during treatment, and it will allow the tooth to remain dry throughout the process. Next, specialized dental tools are used to gain access to the inside of the tooth, allowing us to remove any infected pulp, damaged nerve tissue and visible decay that is present. Once the tooth is clean, we will seal the remaining structure with a medicated filling substance. In order to prevent fractures and ensure stability, a dental crown will be applied over the treated tooth. After treatment, the tooth should have its appearance and functionality restored.
If you are suffering from a root canal infection and you want to find out if a root canal procedure can save your damaged tooth, please call us at (201) 338-5138 to schedule an appointment.
