How a Root Canal Can Save Your Tooth

For many people, hearing the words root canal causes extreme anxiety. Though it might not be the news you want to hear, root canals are one of the most common and successful dental treatments. In fact, dentists around the country perform 15 million root canals each year. And with our dental experts, you can be sure that you’re getting the safest and most gentle care possible. 

At All Bright Dental, Dr. Gennadiy Kravets and his staff of professionals specialize in treating all your dental problems using the best methods like root canals to restore your teeth and relieve your pain. 

Anatomy of your teeth

For being so small, your teeth are very complicated. Your teeth are the hardest substances in your body making them perfect for tearing and chewing your food. On the outside is your enamel which is the hard, white outer surface of your teeth.

Below the enamel is the pulp which includes a series of tubes that, when damaged, cause sensitivity. The pulp contains blood vessels and nerves. There is also a layer called the cementum, which includes connective tissues binding your teeth to your gums and jawbone. 

If your tooth becomes infected and the infection reaches into the deepest layers of your teeth, you’ll likely need a root canal to eradicate the damage and save the tooth. Some signs and symptoms that you need a root canal include:

• Extreme pain when biting down
• Severe tooth sensitivity to hot and cold 
• Discoloration in your teeth
• Pimple-looking abscesses on the gums surrounding the infected tooth
• Swelling and tenderness in your gums

Without intervention, you’re at risk for losing the infected tooth or spreading the infection to other parts of your mouth and even into your bloodstream. 

Here are the basics of how a root canal helps save your infected tooth.

Root canal explained

The goal of a root canal is to remove the pulp of your tooth along with the infection. Before beginning the procedure, Dr. Kravets takes X-rays of your teeth and the surrounding tissues to evaluate the extent of the infection. He then applies a local anesthetic to the affected area so you feel no pain during the procedure. 

A small hole is made in your tooth, deep enough to access the infection. A series of files are inserted into your tooth to scrape away the infection and clean your tooth. Dr. Kravets then uses a cleaning solution to flush away any remaining debris. 

Your newly cleaned tooth is sealed to prevent anything from affecting the tooth while it heals. We recommend that you minimize chewing on the tooth for a few days to avoid recontamination or any damage to the recovering tooth. You can resume your typical dental hygiene routine following treatment. 

With the infected pulp gone and your tooth healing, you’ll feel comfortable again and have a set of healthy teeth once more. If you’re interested in learning more or suspect you need a root canal, call our office or schedule an appointment online today.