A root canal might sound intimidating, but it’s actually a common dental procedure designed to save your natural teeth. They’re usually necessary when the inside of your tooth—the pulp—becomes infected or damaged. If you need a root canal, your Fioritto dentist will ensure that the process is easy and smooth, from start to finish.
Here’s a quick guide to root canals and when they might be the best treatment option.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure that treats an infection or damage within the tooth’s pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. When this area becomes infected or injured, it can cause pain, swelling and sensitivity. Instead of removing the entire tooth, a root canal allows your dentist to clean out the infection, seal the tooth and keep it in place.
To perform a root canal, your Fioritto dentist will first numb the tooth and the surrounding area to make sure that you’re completely comfortable. (If you experience dental anxiety, be sure to inquire about sedation options. They can make root canals and other dental treatments even easier.)
Next, your dentist will make a small opening to access the infected or damaged pulp. They’ll remove the pulp, clean the inside of your tooth and disinfect the canals to ensure that the infection and damage will not return. Then the tooth canals are filled with a special material. In many cases, your Fioritto dentist may put a crown or filling on top of the tooth to ensure its strength, shape and appearance. This is all finished in a single procedure.
When do you need a root canal?
There are several signs that might indicate you need a root canal:
- Persistent tooth pain: Persistent or throbbing tooth pain that doesn’t go away could be a sign that the pulp is infected or damaged.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold: If your tooth hurts when you eat or drink something hot or cold, even long after you’ve finished, it could indicate nerve damage in the tooth.
- Swollen gums or abscess: Swelling around the tooth or a pus-filled bump (also known as an abscess) can signal an infection that needs to be treated immediately.
- Darkening of the tooth: A tooth that becomes darker than the rest could have internal damage.
- Cracked or chipped tooth: If a tooth is cracked or chipped and exposes the pulp, bacteria can enter. This leads to infection.
Root canals are tooth-saving procedures—and your Fioritto dentists are trained to make the process as easy, comfortable and fast as possible. The alternative to a root canal is often tooth extraction. Extractions can lead to more costly and complicated treatments, like implants or bridges. A root canal stops any pain and helps you keep your natural tooth to maintain a healthy, functional bite.
If you’re experiencing any symptoms that suggest a need for a root canal, schedule an appointment with Fioritto Family Dental right away. Whether you need a root canal or another procedure, we’ll make sure you walk out with a bright, healthy smile.