Office Address: 44644 Ann Arbor Rd. Suite F Plymouth, MI 48170
Root Canals
If you are suffering from tooth discomfort and deep decay, you may be a candidate for a root canal treatment. A root canal procedure is simple and relatively pain-free. At Advanced Family Dentistry, we take a gentle and respectful approach to dental treatment to ensure your comfort during root canal treatment.
What Is a Root Canal?
When a tooth experiences trauma or becomes deeply decayed, the interior layer of the tooth known as the pulp can become infected. If left untreated, infected pulp can cause swelling that loosens the connective tissues holding the tooth in the gum leading to tooth loss. The infection can also spread to neighboring teeth and the jawbone and form a painful abscess.
There are several causes of pulp infection that require a root canal including:
- Cracked or broken teeth due to trauma.
- Deep decay.
- Chronic tooth pain.
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold substances.
- Tooth pain due to excessive jaw clenching.
Advantages of a Root Canal Treatment
The best option is always to try and keep your natural tooth. A root canal treatment can save a tooth that may require extraction due to infection or trauma.
Root Canal Procedure
You may need to have your root canal treatment performed over several visits to ensure that all the infection is removed. During the first appointment, a small opening is created in the surface of the tooth to access the inner chamber of the tooth. The infected tissue and nerves are removed, and the chamber is cleaned and disinfected.
Your dentist then shapes the canals and fills them with a rubber sealant to prevent future infection. The opening is filled with a temporary filling until a permanent crown can be fitted. In some cases, patients do not need a crown.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
You may experience some swelling and slight discomfort after the anesthesia has worn off. However, you can alleviate any discomfort with over-the-counter pain medication and a cold compress applied to the side of your face.
Your repaired tooth blends seamlessly with your natural teeth due to the porcelain crown and functions just like a normal tooth.
