Root Canal Therapy – A Tooth-Saving Treatment
We know that our office is not everyone’s favorite place to visit. There are certain treatments that often leave people feeling nervous because of the way they are depicted in movies and on television. One such treatment is a root canal — often the last resort before a tooth needs to be extracted. This treatment has a horrible reputation because of how it is usually portrayed. In reality, thanks to advancements in treatment and technology, a root canal is very similar to a filling.
What is a Root Canal?
Your teeth are composed of many layers. The outer, visible portion of the tooth is covered in a durable substance called enamel. The enamel has to be very strong to protect the soft inner part of the tooth, which contains all the nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth alive, a.k.a. the pulp. When decay penetrates deep into a tooth and the pulp becomes infected, you’ll need a root canal to stop it from spreading further.
A root canal is the process of removing infected tissue from the inside of a tooth, cleaning it out, disinfecting the area, filling the hole that remains, and sealing it all up. Most root canals are finished with a new, natural-looking tooth structure, such as a dental crown, to keep your smile intact and fully functional.
Recovery and Aftercare
It is important to follow our after-treatment instructions to ensure that your mouth heals properly. Be sure to avoid eating or drinking before the numbing agent wears off. You may want to avoid eating on the side where you received treatment. Dr. Peterson requests that patients who receive root canals visit the office for a follow-up appointment six months after receiving treatment. He wants to be sure the infection has been completely removed and the site has healed properly.
If you are experiencing discomfort in your mouth or we have recommended a root canal or other treatment, be sure to contact our office located in Coppell, TX to schedule an appointment. Delaying a root canal or other treatment can lead to serious oral health complications and the need for additional measures, such as tooth extraction. We want to help you get your oral health back on track!
