Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy in Irmo, SC is a way for dentists to save a damaged tooth (when the only other course of action might be pulling it out). By removing the pulp and cleaning out the bacteria, root canals will both protect the original structure of the tooth and prevent infection. Should you require this procedure, you can expect the tooth to be cleaned, filled, and sealed, so you can put the matter behind you. The best thing that you can do for your oral health is find a team who is experienced enough to handle the job.
Root Canal Therapy
Teeth are made up of several components, including enamel, dentin, soft pulp, connective tissues, nerves, and blood vessels. During a root canal, the pulp is cleared away, and the remaining components rely on the filling in the tooth as well as the surrounding teeth to maintain its structure.
Root canals have historically faced a bad reputation due to the number of steps involved in the process. While the modern-day version retains many of the same principles of the original, it’s worth noting that it’s far more routine than it once was. New tactics and techniques ensure that one step flows into another, so it’s as pain-free as possible for the patient.
At Peak Dental, we rely on the following methodology:
- X-rays: X-rays show dentists what exactly is happening within the tooth, revealing the extent of the damage so they know whether to recommend a root canal or another course of treatment.
- Local anesthesia: Root canals do not typically require a person to go under general anesthesia, instead keeping them awake during the process and numbed at the point of contact.
- Separation: A rubber instrument known as a dental dam will keep the root canal separate from the surrounding teeth. This is both to ensure that your other teeth aren’t damaged during the process and to keep moisture at bay.
- Removal, cleaning, and filling: The dentist will remove all nerves, tissues, and blood vessels inside the tooth before cleaning the canal and reshaping it with a natural, flexible material.
- Sealing: The first seal is a temporary one, and it’s done to stop bacteria in its tracks. The last step is a crown, which will typically take some time to fit and place in your mouth.
Root Canal Specialists in Irmo, SC
Root canals are recommended when the problem has gone beyond a simple filling or cleaning. If you’re experiencing sensitivity to hot or cold foods or you’re experiencing pain while you eat, these are signs that you may need a root canal. Other symptoms may include small pimples on the gums or severe inflammation of the surrounding tissue of a tooth. No matter how difficult it may be to schedule an appointment, it’s critical that you take action sooner rather than later if any of these signs sound familiar to you.
Root canals cannot be performed by a general dentist. They can only be performed by an endodontist (root canal specialist). If you need a root canal in Irmo, SC, it’s important to find a professional who has seen a variety of cases. At Peak Dental in Irmo, it’s our job to determine the best course of treatment for you. At every turn, we look for ways to retain your natural teeth, so you can hold on to them for many years to come.