Root canal treatment, also simply known as a root canal, is a restorative procedure for when the inside of a tooth has become compromised by decay. A tooth is living, and there is soft tissue inside. When this soft tissue – called pulp – becomes diseased, the pulp needs to be removed. My Dentist Friend performs root canals to alleviate toothaches and to allow a patient to continue life with a healthy mouth.

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What Is the Procedure for Root Canal Treatment?

If a patient is displaying the symptoms of having teeth with infected or necrotic pulp, our professionals will take an x-ray and use a cold press to test for sensitivity within the tooth. These procedures will determine whether a tooth’s pulp has been compromised. If the pulp is compromised, then our team will organize a surgery date. My Dentist Friend requires ALL patients to take 3D CBCT prior to the surgery date to properly map the canals and for the accuracy of the procedure.

The root canal itself can take two appointments, depending on the difficulty of its removal. However, our Dentists will try and keep it to one appointment when possible. Through the use of local anesthesia, our Dentists will drill a hole in the top of the tooth, which will grant them access to the pulp. The pulp is then removed, and the tooth is flushed with a chemical solution to remove any bacteria. The Dentists will then shape the inside of the tooth and fill it with a rubbery material called gutta-percha. A temporary dental crown is placed after the procedure, and measurements will be taken to make a custom-fit crown. The custom-fit crown will be placed at a later date.

What Are the Symptoms of Needing a Root Canal?

Toothaches are the main symptom of needing root canal treatment, and toothaches are the indicator for which most patients come to our office. Infected or necrotic pulp can be confirmed via a cold press, to which the tooth will be particularly sensitive. The patient will probably be familiar with this sensation, as hot or cold foods can also cause sensitivity and pain in the affected area. Headaches are also a symptom of needing a root canal. Swelling of the gum around the affected tooth area is another indicator that a root canal may be necessary.

Severe symptoms include swelling of the jaw, throat, and cheeks. These symptoms require immediate contact with either our office or the nearest emergency room. Visible symptoms, aside from the swelling, include discoloration of the tooth, as it will be decayed. Pus can also drain from the area, as it is liable to infection, and lumps can grow on the gum beneath the affected tooth. Any of these symptoms, on their own or in combination, should result in contacting our office, so one of our Dentists can investigate the issue.

My Dentist Friend offers root canal treatment and tries to make the procedure as comfortable as possible for our patients. Having root canal treatment is necessary for your overall oral health. To understand the treatment better, contact our office at 856-484-4114 to book an appointment.