An infected tooth can lead to discomfort, swelling, and persistent bad breath. If left untreated, the infection may worsen, resulting in the need for an extraction and potentially causing health issues beyond your smile. Dr. Wood may recommend anterior root canal therapy to preserve your tooth and restore your smile.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is an endodontic treatment designed to heal and restore teeth with damaged or infected pulp. The pulp, often referred to as the tooth’s “nerves,” is a soft tissue inside the tooth that can become inflamed or infected due to:
- Deep Dental Decay: When cavities extend beyond the enamel and dentin into the pulp.
- Injury or Trauma: Cracks or chips that expose the pulp to harmful bacteria.
When the pulp becomes infected, it can cause severe toothaches, sensitivity, swelling, and even abscesses. Without treatment, the pulp tissue may die, potentially leading to tooth loss and alignment issues with surrounding teeth.
Purpose of Root Canal Therapy
The primary purpose of root canal therapy is to save your natural tooth. This procedure not only alleviates pain and eliminates infection but also helps maintain the tooth’s function and appearance, preventing the need for extraction and more extensive treatments.
The Root Canal Process
Dr. Wood ensures your root canal procedure is as comfortable and effective as possible. Here’s what you can expect:
- Keeping the Tooth Dry: A protective barrier is placed to keep the treatment area dry and free of saliva.
- Removing Infected Tissue: Dr. Wood will carefully remove the damaged pulp tissue and clean the interior of the tooth.
- Applying Medication: The cleaned root canals are treated with medication to eliminate bacteria and promote healing.
- Sealing and Protecting: The tooth is filled, sealed, and often capped with a custom dental crown to restore its strength, functionality, and appearance.
Comfort During Your Treatment
At Parkway Family Dental, we prioritize your comfort. We offer sedation options to ensure your root canal experience is a positive one, easing any anxiety or discomfort during the procedure.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
- Pain Relief: Eliminates the source of infection and discomfort.
- Tooth Preservation: Keeps your natural tooth intact and functional.
- Improved Oral Health: Prevents the spread of infection to other teeth or tissues.
- Restored Appearance: A dental crown enhances the look and strength of your tooth.
Don’t let an infected tooth compromise your health or your smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jacob Wood at Parkway Family Dental. Let us help you restore your oral health and preserve your natural teeth.