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Root Canal
(Endodontics) Root Canal, or
endodontics, is the process of removing the nerves from the roots of a
tooth. A root canal is often
necessary to save an infected tooth.
If an infected tooth is left alone for a long period of time, an
abscess can form. An abscess will
show up on an x-ray as a dark spot below the apex of the root. This is actually bone loss in the
jaw. It is very important to catch
this problem before it deteriorates too far. Process The first step
of the procedure is to anesthetize the effected area. The next step is to open an access point
through the top, or biting surface of the tooth. The doctor will then determine a working
length of each canal. Each canal is
then cleaned and shaped in preparation for the filling material. Once each canal is prepared, it is
filled with an inert material called gutta percha. The canals are then sealed. The tooth is now ready for a
restoration, which is usually a crown.
This entire procedure is often completed in two
visits. Why do I need a
root canal? There are a
number of reasons why one of your teeth may need a root canal. These include but are not limited to, a
very deep cavity that extends into the nerve, a trauma to the tooth that
exposes the nerve, or a crack in the tooth that extends into the nerve of
the tooth. Signs/Symptoms -Moderate to
severe lingering toothache pain when drinking hot or cold liquids or
foods. -Moderate to
severe pain when biting on a tooth -Sensitivity to
tapping or pressure on the tooth -Toothache that
wakes you up in the middle of the night -A pimple on
your gum that may release pus or blood -Radiating pain
from one area of the mouth to another |
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714-255-9700 |
