Root Canal
Root Canal in Groton, MA
Why Do You Need A Root Canal?
Bacteria can enter the pulp when a tooth is injured and develops a cavity. If this tooth is left untreated, debris and bacteria can induce infection, resulting in pulp death, bone loss, and tooth loss. Swelling around the neck and face, a hole in the tooth, temperature sensitivity, and toothache are some of the symptoms.
Root Canal Treatment
According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), a root canal usually takes two visits, but for some teeth that are difficult to cure, extra treatment may be required. The amount of the damage is determined by dental x-rays, and a local anesthetic may be given to relieve pain. A dental dam, which resembles a sheet of rubber, is put over the mouth to keep it clean and saliva-free. The decayed material is removed, and a hole is created to allow direct access to the pulp chamber. Small dental instruments are then used to extract the pulp. Infection in the root canal is removed.
Clearing of Root Canal Infection
The chamber is cleaned, and the root canals are cleaned and flushed after decaying debris and infected pulp are removed. The canals can be expanded so that if filing is necessary for the future, there will be ample room. The root canal should be clean, dry, and free of infection before any filing is done. If the infection has spread beyond the tooth, the pulp chamber and root canal may be medicated, and antibiotics may be prescribed. To keep saliva and debris out of the crown, a temporary filling can be used, and it’s best to avoid biting or chewing on it until it’s treated and repaired.
Filling Root Canals
When the chamber is dry and clean the filling process follows. If there was a temporary filling placed it is removed so that the inside of the tooth is accessed. Sealer pastes and rubber compounds fill the tooth and then the dental filling so that the canals are protected from saliva.
The Root Canal Procedure Is Now Complete
The tooth must be safeguarded from further damage and operate normally. This is accomplished by placing a crown, which is an artificial tooth composed of gold, porcelain, or porcelain bonded to metal. The porcelain-fused-to-metal is colored to match the hue of the teeth.
What Happens Following A Root Canal?
With the new crown, your tooth should function normally. The tooth should survive a lifetime if you maintain proper oral hygiene. For a few days following root canal therapy, the tooth may be sensitive; over-the-counter medication may be helpful.
Schedule an appointment at our offices with our specialized medical team at Smiles of Groton. Here you will receive top-quality care to ensure you are able to lead a happy life with a bright smile. Call us today at (978) 449-4679 to book an appointment or to learn more about root canals.
