Root Canal Therapy
Root canal treatments, often misunderstood, are commonly associated with discomfort. However, this is far from the truth! Root canal therapy is a procedure undertaken to alleviate pain, not cause it. Pain occurs when you neglect the need for a root canal, allowing a tooth infection to worsen.
Why Choose Dr. Ken Morgan for Root Canal Therapy?
Dr. Ken Morgan’s experience and understanding approach make him a trusted choice for your root canal needs. By using state-of-the-art technology and prioritizing patient comfort, he ensures a smooth and painless root canal experience. Choosing Dr. Morgan for your root canal treatment means entrusting your oral health to a dentist dedicated to preserving your natural teeth and maintaining your beautiful smile.
Understanding Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontics, focuses on treating the interior of the tooth. The hollow space within each tooth, known as tooth pulp, allows the tooth to sense temperature and keeps it “alive”. When tooth decay reaches and infects this pulp, it’s time for a root canal.
Signs that a root canal is needed can include pain, abscesses, and swelling. However, in many instances, you may not experience noticeable symptoms, underlining the importance of regular dental check-ups. Your dentist is trained to identify early warning signs you might miss.
Procedure Overview
A root canal involves making a small opening in the tooth, extracting the infected or dead pulp through it, and then sealing the tooth. The dentist will start by administering local anesthesia to numb the area. The tooth is then isolated using a rubber dam to keep it clean and free of contamination. A small hole, called an access cavity, is drilled on the tooth surface.
Through the access cavity, the dentist removes the tooth pulp and cleans the tooth’s interior using a dental file. The cavity is periodically flushed with a cleaning solution to ensure complete removal of contaminants. The cavity is then widened to accommodate the sealing material, typically a natural rubber substance called gutta-percha. A temporary filling is placed on top to protect the tooth until it can be permanently sealed during a subsequent appointment. Special care is necessary to prevent re-infection of the tooth.
Aftercare
In many cases, a significant amount of tooth material is removed during a root canal, necessitating a dental crown for restoration. Fillings can work for milder cases, but they’re typically suitable only for front teeth. A filling cannot provide enough support for a molar that has undergone a root canal.
Once your permanent restoration is in place, your tooth should be cared for like any other. Even though a crown or filling provides superior strength and structural support, diligent oral hygiene is still essential for the success of a root canal treatment. Proper home care can make the difference between a future filled with root canals and a lifetime of healthy teeth.