A root canal is often more painful to think about than the actual procedure ends up being. The purpose of the root canal is to save the tooth, preventing extraction and allowing you to keep more natural teeth, which makes the process worth it in the long run.

If you are experiencing severe pain but have concerns about a root canal option, call the offices of Sanders & Soult Family Dentistry today. Our team of experts is ready to relieve your pain and fears.

Root Canals

A root canal is a dental procedure intended to remove damaged nerves and decay in a tooth. The tooth remains permanent and does not require extraction by eliminating infected and damaged nerves. Once a root canal is completed, the tooth can last a lifetime.

Reasons for Root Canals

A root canal becomes necessary when the pulp, tissue, and roots at the center of your tooth become infected, aggravated, or die. These roots connect to nerves below your teeth, which are what cause aching tooth pain.

Signs of Damage Requiring Root Canals

• Pain that exists without eating, drinking, or other aggravation
• Painful sensitivity to heat or cold
• Severe pain when touched or when biting
• Tooth losing color, looking almost darker or dead
• Pus in the tooth or leaking into the mouth.
• Swelling in the lymph nodes, jawbone, or gums

To catch signs of damage requiring a root canal in time to prevent losing the tooth, adults should have dental x-rays completed every three to five years.

Causes of the Damage

• Severe tooth decay, cracks, or chips
• Repeated dental procedures on a tooth
• Prior attempts to restore the tooth
• Trauma to the face and tooth

Failing to Get a Root Canal or Ignoring Dental issues

Pain and decay can become more severe and lead to an infected tooth. Severe untreated symptoms can lead to permanent tooth loss and an increased risk of damage and decay to surrounding teeth.

Procedure for Root Canals

Before following through with a recommended root canal treatment, an endodontist will take x-rays and examine the troubled tooth area to determine if a root canal is necessary or is the best option.

Once confirmed, the process begins with a local anesthetic to numb the troubled tooth area. A dental dam keeps the troubled tooth clean and separated from adjacent teeth during the process.

Once prepared, the endodontist will drill an opening into the tooth to remove the infected pulp and damaged tissue. The area is then cleaned and disinfected before applying a dental filling intended to prevent further infection from entering the tooth.

A temporary filling or crown is placed over the tooth until the permanent crown comes in. After the endodontic treatment, the tooth should last the remainder of your lifetime, pending proper oral hygiene and care.

The entire procedure only takes one or two visits to complete.

Root canals do not have to be dreaded. The dental team at Sanders & Soult Family Dentistry is available to explain the root canal process and why it might be a good option for you. Call us at (303) 337-2794 today for an evaluation and consultation.