Root Canals in Cary, NC
Root canal therapy may be necessary if your tooth becomes badly inflamed or diseased. More than 15 million root canals are performed each year to save teeth that may otherwise need to be extracted. While root canals have a bad rep, modern technologies and techniques have made it possible to undergo root canal treatment in a nearly pain-free manner. Root canals are often a last resort when alternative treatments like fillings are no longer viable options. Learn what having a root canal entails and why you may need to have one.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
If you suspect that you may need root canal treatment, call our office and consult with our dentist. Some red flags that may indicate the need for a root canal include:
- Severe pain when eating or applying pressure to a tooth
- Cold or hot sensitivity that lingers after removing the stimuli
- Small bumps that develop on the gums near the painful tooth
- Darkening of a tooth
- Swelling or tenderness of the gums near the painful tooth
Root Canal Therapy Procedure
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is typically performed in one or two visits to our office. We will begin by examining the tooth and taking x-rays. Next, a local anesthetic is injected into the gums near the affected tooth to numb it. A protective sheet of thin rubber, known as a dental dam, isolates the tooth to keep it clean during the procedure.
Using small instruments, an opening is made in the crown of the tooth and the pulp and root canals are cleaned to make room for a filling. Once the pulp chamber is cleaned, the dentist will fill the root canals with a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha. This cement-like material creates a seal that prevents bacteria from reaching the root canals. It is idea to have a restoration like a crown placed on the tooth to restore its full function.
Learn More About Root Canals
Following a root canal, taking care of your teeth and gums is very important. In addition to having regular dental cleanings and exams, you will want to return to your dentist to ensure that the treated tooth is free of all signs of infection. With proper care, a tooth treated with root canal therapy can last for the rest of your life. To learn more about root canal treatment, contact our office today.