In a recent blog, we talked about dental fillings. This is a restorative treatment that is used to help treat a tooth that has a cavity. The process is minimally invasive and can stop the progression of decay. If you are experiencing a more severe cavity or have avoided getting this restoration done, you may need a root canal instead. In today’s blog, the team at Central Park Dentistry in Charles City, IA, is here to talk about this endodontic treatment.
This Treatment Is Done To Remove Decayed Pulp
What exactly is a root canal? This is an endodontic procedure that involves removing the decayed pulp of your tooth and adding a stronger material to the area. Pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and tissues that can become sensitive if they have been compromised by bacteria. This can lead to long-lasting discomfort that cannot be relieved with other remedies. In many cases, this procedure is the last attempt at saving your dental structure instead of extracting it.
They Can Help With More Than Just Cavities
Many patients assume that a root canal is only necessary if you have a serious cavity. However, this treatment has several purposes. Your dentist may recommend this if a tooth has become infected due to a serious cavity, you have broken one of your dental structures, or your teeth have been damaged due to other reasons. If you have noticed sensitivity when eating, swollen gums, or a toothache that you can’t get rid of, this could be a sign that you need treatment. Your dentist will first thoroughly examine your smile to assess the problem. A mild to moderate cavity may be treated with a simple dental filling. If the area has become infected or the decay is more severe, your dentist may recommend endodontic treatment.
The Procedure Should Not Cause Discomfort
One of the most common reasons that patients are worried about needing root canals is the fear that this procedure is painful. This endodontic treatment is often associated with negative feelings because past techniques may have been uncomfortable for patients. With modern technology and advancements in dentistry, this procedure should cause you very little discomfort. In fact, you may experience near-immediate relief from your symptoms following the treatment. The local area may be numbed before the process begins to protect the area. After this, the pulp will carefully be removed, and the space is cleaned. Your dentist will give you a list of aftercare instructions to ensure that the area heals properly.
Schedule An Appointment With Our Team
When you have a serious toothache, don’t put off treatment. Call Central Park Dentistry in Charles City, IA, today at 641.228.1115.
