When it comes to severe tooth decay, our priority is to do everything that we can to help save the natural tooth. There are many excellent full tooth restorations available, and at Prince Dental Group, we offer a wide range of these procedures to help restore your smile and your confidence.
Root canal treatment is one of the many restorative procedures we offer and it can save a diseased tooth from falling out or extraction. The center of each tooth is called the pulp, and it is full of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Once the pulp is infected, it is best to remove it completely to prevent further decay.
The Therapy
The pulp of the tooth is located in the innermost part of the tooth crown and root canal. To remove the pulp, the dentist will drill into the tooth and then extract the infected tissue using s thin root canal instruments. This process can be lengthy depending on the extent of the decay.
Once all of the pulp has been removed from the crown and the roots, it is essential to clean and disinfect the inner portion of the tooth to flush out any lasting decay. Without the pulp, the tooth will be hollow. Filling the tooth with an antibacterial sealant is necessary to maintain the strength and density of the tooth.
To restore the anatomy and beauty of the tooth post root canal therapy, a filling or a tooth crown may be necessary. Placing a restorative material on the tooth after the treatment will seal off the tooth to any further damage.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
Teeth that need a root canal will not always present signs of pain and discomfort. Some common signs that a root canal might be needed include:
- Severe toothache
- Prolonged sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures
- Pain while chewing or applying any level of pressure
- Darker discoloration of a tooth
- Bleeding or swelling of the gums surrounding a tooth
We encourage you to pay attention to your teeth and call us at Prince Dental Group of Midway, Utah, if you are experiencing any of the above signs. It is impossible to know for sure if you require root canal therapy without a diagnosis from a dental professional. Please come see us as early as possible!