Few procedures have received such an undeserved reputation as the poor root canal. Your Charles City, IA, dentist often employs this endodontic procedure to help stop the progression of a dental infection and restore the health of a smile. In fact, this treatment can actually help prevent the loss of a tooth to an infection, preserving the function and beauty of your smile.
A Comfortable Procedure
Of course, we will always take steps to ensure our patients enjoy a comfortable visit. For example, before starting the procedure we will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the tooth receiving treatment. For patients with dental anxiety, we can also offer nitrous oxide sedation, which helps people enter a calm and relaxed state. Patients wake from the procedure with little to no memory of the experience despite remaining conscious, and the effects will wear off almost immediately, so you can return to work or school, and even drive yourself.
Preventing Tooth Loss
Unless treated, a dental infection could eventually cause the tooth to die, meaning we will need to extract the tooth to prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth. However, with a root canal we can prevent extraction. We begin by opening the tooth to remove the infected tissue from within. Next, we clean the inside of the tooth and add a restorative filling known as gutta percha. After we cure the material, we cap the tooth with a dental crown, which protects the tooth while also offering a lifelike appearance. The entire procedure can usually be completed in a single sitting, so you leave with a healthy, attractive, and comfortable tooth.
Keep Your Smile Strong
Following treatment, we will discuss ways to help prevent an infection from developing. First, if a tooth becomes chipped or cracked, let us know. Untreated damage could lead to an infected tooth. In addition, if you have a cavity that needs treatment, remember that delaying a filling could mean the onset of an infected tooth. To prevent cavities, be sure you’re brushing and flossing daily, and making time to see us for checkups and cleanings twice a year. Remember that warning signs of trouble include headaches, jaw pain, toothaches, tooth sensitivity, and pain when eating. Together, we can make sure you enjoy optimal oral health. If you have any questions about identifying and treating an infected tooth, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, then please contact our team today.
Let’s Treat Your Infection
If you have pain in your smile or have severely cracked a tooth, we can help. To learn more about our approach to endodontic therapy, schedule a visit by calling Central Park Dentistry in Charles City, IA, today at (641) 228-1115. We also proudly welcome patients from Osage, New Hampton, Greene, and all surrounding communities.
