Preference Dental
Root Canal
What is a Root Canal?
The root canal is the natural cavity found within the center of a tooth. It has soft tissue, including blood vessels and nerves. The root canal extends from the tooth’s crown to its roots’ tip. When a tooth is healthy, this space is essential for providing nutrients and sensation to the tooth.
However, when bacteria enter the root canal due to decay or injury, it can cause infection and inflammation of the tissues inside the tooth. This can lead to severe pain, sensitivity, and even abscess formation if left untreated.
A root canal treatment aims to remove infected pulp tissue and clean out any bacteria present to save the tooth from extraction.
Signs That You Need a Root Canal
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it could be an indication that you may need a root canal:
- Severe pain in one or more teeth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Swelling around the affected tooth
- Pain when biting or applying pressure on the tooth
- Darkening of the tooth
- Drainage from the gums near the affected tooth
It is important to note that not all cases of infection or damage to the pulp require a root canal. Our dentists will conduct a thorough examination and diagnostic tests to determine if you need this procedure.
The Root Canal Procedure
The thought of having a root canal may be intimidating, but with our highly trained and experienced dentists, the procedure is quick and painless. Here is what you can expect during your root canal treatment at Preference Dental:
Step 1: Numbing the Affected Area
Our dentist will first administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth. This ensures that you do not feel any pain during the procedure.
Step 2: Accessing the Pulp
Once the area is numb, our dentist will create an opening in the top of your tooth and remove any decayed or infected tissue.
Step 3: Cleaning and Shaping the Canals
Next, our dentist will use small instruments to clean and shape the canals within your tooth. This process may take some time, especially if your tooth has multiple canals.
Step 4: Filling and Sealing
After thoroughly cleaning and shaping the canals, our dentist fills them with a rubber-like gutta-percha material. This is then sealed with a temporary filling to prevent further infection.
Step 5: Final Restoration
Once the tooth has healed, our dentist will place a permanent crown or filling to restore its function and appearance. This final step may require multiple visits, depending on the condition of your tooth.
Recovery After a Root Canal
After your root canal treatment, you may experience some discomfort and sensitivity in the treated area. This is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Following proper oral hygiene practices after your root canal procedure promotes healing and prevents future infections. These include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily to remove any food particles and bacteria
- Avoiding hard and sticky foods that can damage or dislodge the temporary filling
- Attending follow-up appointments as scheduled by your dentist
A Healthier Smile With Root Canals in Big Rapids and Mecosta
Having a root canal may seem daunting, but the Preference Dental team is here to provide comfortable and effective treatment. With our modern techniques and state-of-the-art equipment, you can trust us to restore your oral health and give you a beautiful smile.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of an infected or damaged tooth, do not hesitate to contact us and schedule a consultation with Dr. Douglas Killian or Dr. Toni Schafer. Our team will evaluate your condition and determine if a root canal is best for you. Remember, early detection and treatment can save you from more significant problems in the future.
Don’t let fear prevent you from achieving optimal oral health—trust us for all your dental needs, including preventative, cosmetic, and tooth replacement services in Big Rapids and Mecosta.