Root Canals
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure that removes damaged tissue — the pulp — within your tooth. When your pulp is damaged, diseased, or infected, it can cause serious pain. The damage can spread to the rest of your tooth and beyond if you don’t get help. A root canal can save the healthy part of your tooth.
When do I need a root canal?
You may need a root canal if you have any of the following symptoms.
Severe tooth pain when you bite down or while eating
Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold drinks and food
Gum swelling or discomfort
Tooth discoloration
If you’re having these types of symptoms, schedule an exam with our doctor at Steelecroft Dental as soon as possible. Our doctor can determine whether a root canal is the best approach for your specific issues.
How does a root canal work?
A local oral surgeon at a Steelecroft Dental sister practice performs your root canal procedure. Our doctor coordinates with your oral surgeon to ensure that you get the best care throughout. A root canal starts with local anesthesia to numb the treatment area.
Next, your oral surgeon creates a small hole in the tooth. Then, they extract the tooth pulp through your tooth’s root canals. Your oral surgeon cleans out the inner tooth thoroughly to remove any decay or infection left behind and then reshapes the tooth’s root canal system where necessary.
Your oral surgeon inserts a synthetic material within your tooth to replace the pulp. This material, gutta-percha, is safe and sterile. It gives your tooth strength in the absence of its pulp. Your surgeon seals the tooth to complete your root canal procedure.
How do I protect my tooth after root canal?
A crown is the best way to protect your tooth after a root canal. You’ll return to Steelecroft Dental so our doctor can give you a custom crown. Crowns are made using an impression of your mouth, so they fit perfectly over your tooth.
Our doctor prepares your tooth for a crown by removing a bit of enamel and then applying a strong dental bonding agent. Once your crown is placed, you can use the tooth with full confidence — and without pain.
Book online, or call Steelecroft Dental for your root canal consultation today.