Root Canal Therapy
Asheboro, NC
When it comes to the world of dentistry, there are seldom any words as dreaded as the very mention of root canals. With tooth infection, root canals actually provide immense relief to anyone afflicted with inflamed and infected roots. The pain that comes from infected roots far outweighs any numbed pain coming from a root canal process itself. Here at Randolph Center for Dental Excellence family dentistry, we are well prepared to provide root canals, as well as provide useful information many may not know regarding the process.
What Are Root Canals?
Teeth can become infected over a period of time. When bacteria grow, they form plaque. Plaque wears down teeth and worn-down teeth with plaque only allow bacteria to get in deeper. Eventually, when bacteria get to the root, it causes it to become inflamed and painful.
Root canals are a treatment for an infected root. They are intended to remove any bacteria from an infected root and to strengthen and save the existing natural tooth. During a root canal procedure, the infected pulp is removed, cleaned, and then filled to prevent it from recurring.
What is The Root Canal Process?
Root canals begin by determining the scope of the infection during a dental exam with us. X-rays are utilized to determine the shape of the root canals, and determine if the infection has reached any bone tissue. We typically numb the area as the next step to keep you calm, relaxed, and minimize any possible discomfort. This is all preparation work for the procedure itself.
The actual drilling of the tooth happens next, and it is important so that we can have access to the root itself. Using special tools, the root is cleared and cleaned out. Filling might happen within the same day, or we might decide to wait and apply medication to sit for approximately a week before filling in the root canal. Finally, root canals are filled with a rubber amalgam called gutta percha. On occasion, large root canal repairs may require a crown to fully restore the tooth.
When are Extractions Preferred?
On occasion, we may opt to remove a tooth altogether. There are some cases where a tooth has incurred too large a cavity such that saving the tooth is not feasible, or is better off being replaced. In these circumstances, tooth extraction may be the ideal treatment, and the patient will have the option to get implants or bridges.
The largest determining factor to whether or not an extraction will be performed is the level and amount of decay the tooth has experienced. Whether a tooth is salvageable will come down to each individual experience. Though it is not a pleasant experience to have an extraction performed, it is important to remember that infected roots must be treated promptly.
Root canals are understandably complex procedures. Many patients do not like the idea of their teeth being worked on, and many are uncertain of processes they might have misconceptions about. Still, it is important, regardless of any trepidation, to treat an infected root. The benefits of root canals are paramount, and you will feel much better following a root canal procedure. If you have any questions regarding root canals, please contact our team here at Randolph Center for Dental Excellence at today.
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