Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is used when the inner portion of a tooth becomes damaged from infection or decay. The process is designed to save a tooth from extraction by removing the infected living material inside the tooth and replacing it with a special medicated filling. A tooth that has received root canal treatment will retain its original structure and integrity, while also having its function and appearance fully restored.
A root canal infection occurs when decay spreads to the pulp of a tooth or when a bacterial infection develops inside a tooth or at the root tip. Some of the signs of a root canal infection include:
- Intense tooth pain
- Sensitivity to temperature
- Tender and inflamed gums
- Abscess on the gums
When conducting root canal treatment, the first step is to numb the tooth using a local anesthetic. A rubber sheet is used to keep the tooth dry and to prevent the infection from spreading during the procedure. Once ready, special dental tools are used to access the inner portion of the tooth. The dentist will carefully remove any infected pulp, damaged nerve tissue and visible decay that is present within the tooth. After the tooth has been thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed using a designated filling material. The tooth will then be fitted with a temporary crown to prevent any fractures from occurring. The patient will be required to make a follow-up visit to have a permanent dental crown installed.
If you would like to learn more about root canal treatment, please call us at (734) 441-0200 to schedule an appointment.
