Root canal therapy is recommended when the nerve of a tooth shows signs of decay or infection. To save the tooth, the pulp (the living tissue residing inside the tooth), nerves and any decay are removed and the vacated space is filled with special dental materials, which restore the tooth to its full functional healthy state.
Having a root canal done on a tooth is considered the best method to take in order to save a tooth that otherwise would die and need to be extracted. Many patients incorrectly think removing a tooth that has problems is the best solution, but very often what is not taken into consideration is the fact that pulling a tooth will end up being costlier and cause possible significant problems for adjacent teeth.
Root canal treatment has a very favorable success rate and usually lasts a lifetime, although occasionally a tooth will have to be retreated because of a new infection.
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling or tenderness or severe tooth pain you may be in need of root canal therapy.
What does root canal therapy involve?
A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be completed in the dental office.
First your tooth will be numbed. A rubber dam will then be placed around the tooth to keep it dry. An opening is then made on top of the tooth where a set of root canal files are placed into the opening, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and any bacteria.
Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with a permanent or temporary filling.
At the next appointment, about a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will then be set to cover the opening on top of the tooth to prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full functionality.
If you have any further questions regarding root canal therapy and how it may benefit you please call Dr. Bennardo today at 847-380-1906. He and his knowledgeable and friendly staff are there for you to answer all your questions and provide you more information.
