A root canal procedure is a common dental treatment that saves a damaged or infected tooth. Inflammation or infection in the pulp, the innermost soft tissue of the tooth, makes this treatment necessary.
Modern dentistry has significantly improved despite the misconception that root canals are painful. Today, dentists can ensure that patients experience minimal discomfort during the process. If you suffer from a severely damaged or decayed tooth, Storts Family Dentistry can provide a root canal in Ardmore and Madill, OK.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a conservative dental treatment that fixes and saves a damaged or infected tooth. Inside each tooth, beneath the white enamel and a hard layer called dentin, lies a soft tissue called pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues that help the tooth grow and develop. If damage or infection from a deep cavity, crack, or injury occurs, a root canal can fix it and stop the pain.
Why are Root Canals Necessary?
Several factors can lead to the need for a root canal procedure:
- Tooth Decay: If you do not seek treatment for tooth decay, it will reach the inner tooth and cause infection and inflammation. A small cavity can grow and damage your tooth, letting germs inside and causing an infection. In this case, you will need a root canal to remove the infected pulp.
- Trauma: Trauma to the mouth can damage teeth. Teeth cracked or chipped due to an accident or injury can expose the pulp, making it more susceptible to infection.
- Repeated Dental Procedures: If a tooth has several fillings or crowns, the soft part inside can develop inflammation. The only treatment is a root canal to remove the inflammation from the tooth.
- Dental Abscess: An untreated cavity or infection can cause an abscess—a painful pocket of pus at the tooth’s root. Root canal therapy is essential to treat the abscess and prevent its recurrence. A dental abscess is a dental emergency, as the infection can spread to other body parts.
- Sensitivity to Hot and Cold: If your tooth still hurts when you touch it with hot or cold after treatment, the nerve might have been damaged. Damage to the pulp means a dentist will need to remove it with a root canal.
Does a Root Canal Hurt?
A common misconception about root canals is that they are painful. In reality, a root canal will provide you with significant relief from the pain and discomfort. Most people call pain pain caused by an infection or injury.
Most patients feel relief once the dentist removes the infection and cleans and seals the tooth. Additionally, before the procedure, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding area. This will ensure that you will not feel any pain during the procedure.
Steps in a Root Canal Treatment in Southern Oklahoma
- The first step involves a thorough examination and X-rays to assess the extent of damage. This will help your dentist determine if a root canal is necessary. Your dentist will discuss the procedure, answer your questions, and address your concerns before proceeding.
- We numb your tooth before a root canal to prevent pain and ensure comfort during the procedure.
- Your dentist will need to isolate the affected tooth. During the procedure, they will place a rubber dam around it to keep it dry and saliva-free. This also prevents contamination of the tooth’s interior.
- Your dentist will drill a small opening in the tooth’s crown to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
- After opening your tooth, the dentist will remove the damaged nerve and clean the roots. Then, they will clean and shape the canals to prepare them for filling.
- The dentist fills the cleaned roots with a safe, rubber-like material to prevent germs. Then, the dentist seals the access opening with a temporary or permanent filling.
- In most cases, a tooth that has undergone a root canal will need a dental crown. This restorative dentistry treatment strengthens and protects the tooth, restoring its function and appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a root canal better than extracting the tooth?
A root canal is often better than extracting the tooth. It saves your natural tooth and helps maintain your bite and chewing efficiency. Root canals remove the infected pulp and seal the tooth.
You can then restore it with a crown. Extraction, however, leaves a gap that might require a bridge or implant. This option could be complex and costly.
Can my endodontist or dentist sedate me for a root canal procedure?
Yes. Most endodontists and dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area. This will ensure you don’t feel pain during the procedure. If you feel anxious, you can opt for additional sedation methods.
Your options include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation, or IV sedation. These methods help you relax and make the experience more comfortable.
Will I need a crown after a root canal?
In many cases, you’ll need a crown after a root canal. The root canal treatment removes the infected pulp, leaving the tooth more fragile and susceptible to fractures. A crown provides protection and restores the tooth’s function and appearance.
Your dentist will assess the condition of your tooth and recommend a crown if necessary. A filling may suffice in some instances, but a crown is often the preferred option for long-term durability.
Do I still need a root canal if my tooth doesn’t hurt?
You might still need a root canal even if your tooth doesn’t hurt. You can have a severe infection or damage in a tooth without having pain.
Symptoms like persistent bad breath, discoloration, inflammation, or swelling can indicate an underlying issue. Moreover, an infection can still progress and cause more severe problems later. Your dentist will evaluate your tooth with X-rays and other tests to determine if a root canal is necessary.
How long does a root canal last?
A tooth treated with a root canal can last a lifetime with proper care. But if the tooth gets reinfected, your dentist might redo the root canal, add a new crown, or remove it. Bi-yearly dental check-ups and good oral hygiene ensure the treated tooth remains healthy.
Can you get braces after a root canal?
Yes, you can get braces after a root canal. The procedure doesn’t affect your ability to undergo orthodontic treatment. However, sufficient healing time is important, and ensuring that your dental professionals coordinate closely is important. They can customize your orthodontic treatment plan to achieve the best outcome.
Root canal treatment is a valuable treatment we use to help save our patients’ teeth. If you suspect you may need a root canal or have concerns about your dental health, contact Storts Family Dentistry. We can provide you with a root canal in Ardmore and Madill, OK, if necessary. You can reach us at (580) 223-6720 or request an appointment online.