Whether it’s for the relief of tooth pain or to preserve a damaged or decayed tooth, a root canal is an effective dental procedure.

A root canal is needed when untreated dental decay and bacteria cause an infection in the inner part of your tooth (the pulp). The nerves and blood vessels inside your tooth are protected by a hard, outer layer of enamel and a soft tissue called the pulp.

If this soft tissue is infected, it causes severe pain. The infection could spread to the roots of your tooth, causing an abscess. Infected teeth are often painful to chew with and can be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.

When a root canal is performed, the dentist removes infected tissue and cleans the infected chamber and root canal. This procedure is necessary to save your tooth, and it can also prevent the spread of infection to other parts of your body.

Depending on your individual case, a root canal usually takes one or two office visits. However, if the treatment is necessary due to an abscess or other issues, it may take longer.

The Procedure

The initial appointment includes a complete examination of your mouth and teeth, including x-rays, to identify the source of your tooth pain. The dentist will listen to your symptoms and determine if root canal therapy is the best option for you.

After the procedure, you will need to wait for a few days while your tooth heals. Most patients report a quick, pain-free recovery.

A Sarasota FL Root Canal Specialist will use anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Then, he or she will make an opening through the crown of your tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canal. The infected tissue and debris are removed, the canals are cleaned and shaped and a filling is placed to seal them.

Once the canals are filled, a dental crown is then placed to protect the treated tooth and restore its function. The restoration is made to look like a natural tooth, and it is stronger than your own tooth enamel.

Why Root Canals?

A root canal is needed when the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected due to deep decay, trauma or a crack. This pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissues that nourish a tooth during its development. When this tissue becomes infected, it can no longer nourishe the tooth and can eventually die.

Some of the most common signs of a diseased tooth that requires root canal treatment include: Tooth pain that doesn’t go away; Sensitivity to heat and cold; dark discoloration around the tooth or gums; swelling or tenderness in your mouth; and a fever or chills.

If you have any of these signs, call us right away to schedule your root canal appointment. We will help you get rid of your tooth pain and avoid other serious health problems.

Although some people believe that root canals are dangerous, they’re actually a safe and effective way to treat an infected tooth. The American Dental Association reports that root canals are the most commonly performed dental procedure in the United States.