Root Canal An Overview
Dr. Paulen performs root canal therapy whenever possible to save the natural tooth. Modern dentistry has proven the benefits of keeping natural teeth for both long-term dental health and overall physical well-being.
The term root canal refers to the interior of a tooth where the pulp and nerves are located. A root canal treatment is needed when a tooth is significantly damaged or has decay that extends into the pulp chamber. Tooth pain is usually the first sign patients experience, though a dentist can spot infection during routine examinations.
You may need a root canal if one or more of the following conditions apply:
- Intense toothache
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and/or beverages
- Swollen gums
- Discoloration of the teeth
We perform root canals to repair damaged and decayed teeth. When the pulp of the tooth is compromised, it needs to be removed, and the tooth must be cleaned and sealed.
Your ultimate wellness and dental health are important to our team at Proud Smiles. We work with you to improve your smile and get you a step closer to optimal oral health.
The Stigma of Root Canals
Many people are afraid to get root canals because of the stigma that surrounds them. They’re thought to be something extremely painful when really, the opposite is true. The infection causes the pain and pressure you feel in your tooth. The dental pulp contains nerve endings and other soft tissue. These become irritated and swell when they’re infected.
The irritated tissues are trapped inside the hard enamel of the outside of your tooth. This causes pressure and pain, particularly when you go to bite or chew food. You may also experience sensitivity when things are really hot or cold. The pain continues until you’re able to relieve the swelling.
A root canal does this. Instead of being something that causes pain for you, many patients feel immediate relief when they get the root canal. We clean out the infected tissue so that it’s no longer putting pressure on the walls of your tooth. You may experience some soreness after the procedure, but the persistent pain should be relieved.