At Smile Connection, we are dedicated to helping patients in need of root canal therapy. Root canals are a common and effective treatment for saving teeth that have been damaged by infection or decay.
Understanding Root Canal Therapy
When the pulp of a tooth becomes infected or damaged, it can cause severe pain and lead to further complications if left untreated. Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is performed to remove the damaged pulp, disinfect the interior of the tooth, and restore its function.
The Root Canal Procedure
- Diagnosis and Preparation: Your dentist or endodontist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the infection and plan the procedure. In some cases, you may be prescribed medication to reduce infection and inflammation before the treatment.
- Anesthesia: To ensure a painless experience, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area.
- Opening the Tooth: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp.
- Removing the Damaged Pulp: The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed from the pulp chamber and root canals.
- Cleaning and Disinfecting: The interior of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate bacteria and prevent further infection.
- Shaping and Filling: The empty canals are shaped to allow for a secure filling. The canals are then filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha.
- Sealing the Tooth: The tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to protect it from contaminants.
- Restoration: After the root canal therapy, the tooth may need to be restored with a crown to provide additional protection and restore its function. The crown will be custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
- Pain Relief: Root canal therapy eliminates the source of infection and alleviates the severe pain associated with it.
- Preservation of Natural Teeth: By removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth, root canal therapy saves your natural tooth, preventing the need for extraction.
- Restoration of Function: Once restored with a crown, the treated tooth will function like your other natural teeth, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably.
Managing Pain and Anxiety
At Smile Connection, we understand that the thought of a root canal can cause anxiety for many patients. Our staff is specially trained to manage pain, anxiety, and fear, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free experience. The root canal procedure itself is usually painless, thanks to modern anesthesia and pain management techniques. Endodontists are also experienced in emergency pain control, providing immediate relief from severe tooth pain.
Post-Treatment Care
After your root canal therapy, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-treatment care to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, and avoid chewing on hard foods until the tooth is fully restored with a crown.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about root canal therapy or need to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us us today at (909) 391-8990. At Smile Connection, we are committed to providing high-quality dental care to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, pain-free smile. Let us help you restore your oral health with our expert root canal services.