Root Canals / Endodontics
If the nerve chamber of a tooth becomes infected by decay, exposed from trauma, involved with a crack, or affected by orthodontic movement, root canal therapy is often the only way to correct the problem and save the tooth.Inside the tooth's dense outer shell is a nourishing pulp of nerves, blood vessels and lymph vessels. The root canals contain the pulp and extend through the root to the bone.
Deep tooth decay or an injury can cause serious damage to these vital tissues. Teeth with large fillings or crowns can also have underlying damaged pulps that are vulnerable to bacterial infection. Root canal, or endodontic treatment cleans out the infected pulp chamber and seals it off with a filler material.
Some indications that you may need root canal therapy include:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold liquids, especially for prolonged periods of time (greater than 30 seconds)
- Pain or throbbing when chewing
- Extensive decay or injury that creates an abscess (infection) in the bone
- Pain at night or while lying down
Root canal therapy involves several steps:
- After the tooth is anesthetized, an opening is made through the crown into the pulp chamber.
- The length of the root canals is determined as well as how many canals are present.
- Unhealthy pulp is removed. Canals are cleaned, shaped and irrigated with antibacterial rinses.
- The canals are dried, filled and sealed. Often a post may be added for structural support or to help retain restorative materials.
- The access opening is sealed with a temporary material. A full coverage crown is recommended to protect the tooth from biting forces and possible fracture.
Our comprehensive services include:
- Dentistry for the Whole Family with Private Rooms
- Regular Checkups and Cleanings
- Emergency Care
- Zoom! Tooth Whitening
- White Fillings
- Porcelain Inlays And Onlays
- Mini Implants / Denture Stabilization More Info
- Zimmer Dental Implants
- Dentures
- Partials
- Porcelain And Traditional Crowns
- Veneers
For more information on any of our services, please contact us at one of our offices.