Root Canal Therapy

What is Root Canal Therapy?

Root canal therapy is a dental procedure designed to treat infected or inflamed tooth pulp. This soft tissue inside the tooth can become damaged due to decay, trauma, or infection. Root canal treatment involves removing the diseased pulp, cleaning the canals inside the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further issues. This saves the tooth from extraction and restores its normal function.

Specialties and Procedures

Performed by an endodontist, root canal therapy is a detailed procedure that requires precision. The endodontist will open the tooth, remove the infected pulp, and thoroughly clean the root canals. After disinfecting the canals, they are filled with a special material, and the tooth is then restored with a crown or filling to protect it.

When to Seek a Root Canal Specialist?

If you're experiencing persistent tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, or notice gum swelling or discoloration, it may be time to consult a specialist. These are signs that the pulp inside the tooth is infected and may require a root canal. Timely treatment can relieve pain and save your tooth from extraction.

Symptoms and How the Dentist Can Help

Signs that you might need a root canal include severe tooth pain, sensitivity to temperature changes, gum inflammation, and the presence of an abscess. An endodontist can relieve this discomfort by removing the infected tissue and restoring the tooth with a root canal. The procedure is designed to eliminate pain while preserving the tooth’s structure.

Preventing the Need for Root Canal Therapy

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent infection or damage to the tooth’s pulp. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can help detect cavities or minor issues before they worsen. Promptly treating small cavities, avoiding hard foods, and limiting sugary snacks are also key to preventing the need for root canal therapy.

Types of Root Canal Treatments

Standard Root Canal Procedure

In cases where a tooth’s pulp is inflamed or infected, a standard root canal procedure can save the tooth. The dentist will clean out the infected pulp, disinfect the area, and then fill the canals with a special material. Afterward, a crown or filling is applied to restore the tooth’s strength and function. This procedure typically requires one to two appointments.

This treatment allows patients to retain their natural tooth, which is always preferable to extraction. With modern techniques and materials, a treated tooth can last for many years without further complications.

Retreatment of Root Canals

Sometimes, a tooth that has already undergone root canal treatment may develop new issues, such as infection or persistent pain. In these cases, a retreatment is necessary. The endodontist will remove the previous filling material, clean the canals again, and reseal the tooth.

Retreatment offers a second chance to save the tooth and is an alternative to extraction. It allows the patient to avoid more invasive options like implants or dentures and maintains the integrity of the original tooth structure.

Root Canal Services at Clinic Consultation

At Clinic Consultation, we provide expert root canal treatments using the latest technology and methods. Our skilled endodontists are committed to delivering effective, pain-relieving treatments that restore dental health and comfort. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, our team is here to provide personalized, high-quality care.