Root Canals: Saving Your Natural Teeth at Foundations of Health Dental Care, St. Joseph, MO
At Foundations of Health Dental Care, we prioritize preserving your natural smile. Sometimes, saving a tooth with a root canal addresses damage deep within the tooth. Here are four key points to understand about root canals:
Why You May Need a Root Canal.
- Deep decay: When decay reaches the sensitive pulp chamber within the tooth’s root.
- Fractures or chips: Exposing the pulp and causing inflammation or infection.
- Repeated dental procedures: Weakening the tooth and increasing the risk of pulp damage.
- Severe gum disease affects the tissues supporting the root and leads to infection.
Steps taken during a Root Canal.
- Numbing the area: Ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure.
- Creating an access point: Reaching the infected pulp chamber inside the tooth.
- Removing infected tissue: Carefully cleaning and disinfecting the pulp chamber and root canals.
- Filling the canals: Sealing the canals with a special material to prevent further infection.
- Placing a crown is often recommended to strengthen and protect the treated tooth.
Benefits of Root Canals.
- Preserve your natural tooth: Saving the tooth avoids the need for extraction and the potential complications of missing teeth.
- Reduces pain and discomfort: Addressing the source of infection alleviates pain and sensitivity.
- Improves oral health: Prevents further spread of infection and protects surrounding teeth.
- Maintains a healthy smile: Preserves your smile’s natural appearance and function.
Root Canal Procedure Recovery and Aftercare
- Minor discomfort: Managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
- Sensitivity: Normal for a few days and gradually decreases.
- Good oral hygiene: Maintain regular brushing and flossing to prevent future issues.
- Follow-up appointments: Monitor healing and ensure the root canal’s success.
Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace our individual professional dental advice. If you have concerns about a tooth or need further information about root canals, please schedule a consultation with our Foundations of Health Dental Care team. We’re here to answer your questions and guide you toward optimal oral health.