Root Canals in El Paso
Root canals are also called endodontic treatment. They are used to remove bacteria from an infected root canal. They prevent reinfection and allow your natural tooth to be saved. It's common for people to dread root canals and associate them with a very painful dental visit. However, modern root canals can be performed without causing pain and discomfort. In fact, a root canal will provide relief from the pain of an infected root canal.
What is Root Canal Treatment
There is a soft tissue material called pulp inside your teeth. This pulp can become infected leading to pain and inflation in your tooth root and gums. A root canal corrects this issue. A dentist removes the infected pulp and then cleans the inside of your tooth. Once bacteria is removed your tooth will be filled and sealed.
There are several advantages to root canal treatment. It can prevent the infection from spreading to the surrounding teeth. Root canals don't change the appearance of your tooth. Additionally, a tooth that has received a root canal can be used just like any other tooth in your mouth. With proper care and hygiene a root canal treatment can last for the rest of your life.
Symptoms of Root Canal
Root canals are used to address infected pulp. Having a tooth with infected pulp can cause you to have pain and difficulty eating. Signs you might night a root canal include:
- Your teeth are very sensitive to hot or cold foods
- Your teeth still feel sensitive even after you’re finished the food
- You have pain while you chew
- You can see a chipped or cracked tooth
- You have pimples on your gums
- Your gums are swollen and painful
- Your gums are darker color than normal
Reasons for Root Canal
You need a root canal when the pulp in one of your teeth is infected. When the infected pulp isn’t treated it can lead to pain and to tooth abscess. The pulp of your tooth can become infected in a few different ways. Common reasons for a root canal include:
● Severe decay
● A crack in the tooth
● A chip in the tooth
● A faulty crown
● Repeated dental procedures
● Trauma to your tooth
Root Canal Procedure
It will take one or two visits to complete your root canal. The procedure is painless and recovery is quick. Most people are able to return to work or school following a root canal. You’ll likely be numb for about two to four hours after the procedure. It’s best to avoid eating during this time.
Steps in a root canal procedure are:
1. Your teeth will be x-rayed
2. You’ll receive a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding gums
3. A dental dam will be placed to isolate the infected tooth
4. The top of your tooth will be opened carefully
5. The pulp will be removed from the interior of your tooth
6. The space will be cleaned and disinfected
7. The root canal will be sealed with a rubber-like material
8. A temporary filling will be placed to close the opening in your tooth
9. You will return for a follow-up appointment
10. Your temporary filling will be removed
11. Your tooth will be filled
12. A dental crown might be placed to protect your tooth and keep it functional
In some cases, all of these steps can be completed in a single visit. You won’t need a temporary filling if this is your situation. Your dentist will let you know what will happen at each appointment. Teeth that need more support might also have a dental implant placed inside. This can help your tooth retain its shape and strength and function. A crown will then be placed to seal your tooth.
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