Root Canal Treatment

The dental pulp is an important component of the tooth. In the innermost layer of the tooth, the dental pulp houses nerve endings and blood vessels. It extends from the crown (top) of the tooth to the roots (bottom).

However, removing the unhealthy tissue is necessary for the tooth’s survival if the dental pulp becomes inflamed or infected. People suffering from intense discomfort from dental pulp damage must schedule a dental appointment before it’s too late.

Root canals are standard procedures, and finding a dentist in Porterville to perform one is easy. Live Oak Dental Groups performs simple and complex root canals gently, efficiently, and effectively.

What is a root canal?

Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a standard but serious procedure. Dentists perform root canals to eliminate bacteria from infected or inflamed inner tooth tissue. Also, root canals can preserve the natural tooth root and discourage reinfection.

Root canal infections are notoriously painful, but treatment can be relatively painless and highly effective. Preserving teeth through root canal therapy can protect teeth from excessive strain, support normal chewing and biting forces, and save the tooth from extraction.

What happens during root canal treatment?

Before the procedure, a dentist will perform an exam and x-ray the mouth to get an image of the internal oral structures. If he or she rules that root canal therapy is necessary, this is what happens:

First, the dentist will numb the tooth. This makes the experience more comfortable.
Secondly, the dentist applies a dental dam to isolate the damaged tooth and shield the other structures from bacteria and moisture.
Next, the dentist opens the crown of the tooth into the dental pulp chamber.
After, antibacterial fluid is washed into the root canal to help rinse away debris.
Then, the pulp is removed as the dentist cleans and shapes the inner tooth structure.
After the canal is shaped and cleaned, the dentist fills and seals the root canal.
Finally, a filling or crown is added on top of the tooth to strengthen and protect it.

After the procedure, you should be able to drive home.

Signs That a Root Canal May Be Necessary

Here are some reasons why people need root canals:

Deep cavity
Cracked teeth
Issues from a previous filling

Patients suffering from infected dental pulp often complain about persistent discomfort and sensitivity. While these aren’t specific symptoms (since many dental conditions can cause a lack of comfort), it’s crucial to visit the dentist immediately when you experience these symptoms. Even if you are experiencing something minor, we can treat it before it gets worse.

If the dental pain and sensitivity symptoms may last for a few days to a few weeks and then goes away, a common misconception is that it resolved itself. However, the reality is that the inner dental nerves are so damaged that they cannot transmit pain signals anymore.

Root Canal Treatment