Hearing the words “root canal” don’t usually make people feel warm and fuzzy, but in a way, maybe they should.
Because if you have been living with the pain of an infected or badly damaged tooth, a root canal may provide the relief you need. Besides which, modern dentistry has changed in recent years. There are more ways to safely and painlessly care for your teeth than there were even 10 years ago. Ultra-modern dental techniques can make an endodontic treatment (root canal) seem like a routine visit to the dentist’s office. A little information can go a long way towards not being afraid of a root canal anymore.
What is a Root Canal (Endodontic Treatment)?
A root canal is a way to save damaged or infected teeth. Teeth may look solid from the outside, but they have chambers (called canals) that hold blood vessels, lymph vessels, nerves and other soft tissues that help to nourish and sustain the tooth.
These canals are extremely tiny, and they are encased in a strong outer shell, so if a tooth becomes infected, pressure builds up and pushes on the delicate nerves, causing severe, even excruciating pain inside the tooth. Even if there is no infection present, the nerves of a tooth which have become irritated or inflamed can cause damage to the pulp inside of the tooth.
Besides the pain, without proper care the infection can spread to other roots and gum. They can damage other teeth too. In some cases, an infection can move into other areas of the face, jaw and sinuses. Simply put, infected teeth are a health risk that can easily spread to the surrounding tissues.
During a root canal the dentist removes any infected pulp tissue, and nerve roots. The canals are then cleaned and sealed, thus preserving the outside of the tooth. A new crown (the visible top portion of a tooth that is above the gum-line) is cemented to the freshly cleaned tooth. In many cases, a root canal can actually be completed in one visit.
Whether you need a root canal, a cleaning, oral cancer screening, cosmetic or restorative dentistry to help replace badly damaged, worn or missing teeth, Dr. Hagerman has the exceptional training and gentle dentistry skills you can trust. Find out how we are changing the face of dental care for the better.
If you or a loved one needs exceptional dental care, or you would like to know more about root canals, please call the office of Dr. Hagerman today. Call (651) 646-2392 or use our convenient online form. You don’t have to be afraid of going to the dentist anymore. Call now for a healthier, happier smile tomorrow.