Root Canal Treatment in Lauderdale Lakes
Relieve the Pain, Save Your Smile
What is a Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed, damaged, or infected. Inside every tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.
When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain and lead to the formation of an abscess. A root canal removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and then seals it to prevent further infection.
The treated tooth is typically restored with a filling or a crown to provide strength and protection.
Signs That You Need a Root Canal Treatment
- Deep decay has reached the pulp of your tooth
- Repeated dental procedures have weakened the tooth
- A cracked or chipped tooth has allowed bacteria inside
- Trauma or injury to the tooth has damaged the pulp
- An infection or abscess has formed inside the tooth or at the root tip
What to expect?
This treatment strengthens your tooth, eliminates pain and discomfort, and allows you to enjoy full use of it again. At Lauderdale iSmile, we use advanced dental equipment and the latest techniques to ensure precision, safety, and long-lasting results. Throughout the process, we prioritize your comfort, making your root canal experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Root Canal FAQ
At Lauderdale iSmile, we understand that the idea of a root canal can be daunting. However, this standard dental procedure can help save your natural teeth and prevent the need for more extensive treatments. To help put your mind at ease, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about root canal treatment.
A root canal is a dental procedure to treat infection or inflammation within a tooth’s pulp. The pulp, located inside the tooth, contains nerves and blood vessels. When it becomes infected due to decay, trauma, or a deep cavity, a root canal is performed to remove the infected pulp, clean the area, and seal the tooth to prevent further damage.
You may need a root canal if you have a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. Symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include:
- Persistent tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen or tender gums
- A darkened tooth
- Pain when chewing or biting
Contrary to popular belief, a root canal procedure is less painful than you think. Thanks to modern dental technology and anesthesia, most patients report that the procedure feels similar to regular filling. The discomfort you’re likely experiencing before the procedure is often more severe than the procedure itself.
Depending on the case’s complexity, a root canal typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Sometimes, the procedure may require multiple visits if the infection is extensive or if a dental crown is needed to restore the tooth.
- Numb the area around the tooth with local anesthesia.
- Create a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp.
- Remove the infected pulp and clean the inside of the tooth.
- Disinfect the tooth to ensure no bacteria remain.
- Fill the cleaned-out area with a biocompatible material.
- Seal the tooth and, in many cases, prepare it for a crown.
After the procedure, it’s normal to experience some mild soreness for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate any discomfort. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental checkups is essential. If your tooth requires a crown, follow up with your dentist to complete the restoration process.
While root canals have a high success rate, there are rare instances where they may fail due to residual infection or an undetected crack in the tooth. In such cases, retreatment or endodontic surgery may be necessary.
A tooth that has undergone a root canal can last a lifetime with proper care. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits are key to maintaining the health of the treated tooth and preventing further decay or infection.
Once the root canal is complete and the tooth is restored with a crown or filling, it will look and function like your natural tooth. Crowns are designed to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth so no one will notice the difference.
You can reduce your chances of needing a future root canal by maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding excessive consumption of sugary foods, wearing a mouthguard during sports, and attending regular dental checkups.
Lauderdale iSmile Dentists and Team
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