Having a healthy set of teeth and gums is important for more than just a pleasing appearance. Proper oral hygiene can help to prevent a variety of potential health problems, such as gum disease, cavities, and even heart disease.
Taking the time to brush and floss regularly, as well as visiting the dentist for checkups and cleanings, can make all the difference in maintaining good oral health. A beautiful smile is a great bonus, but the real benefit is the improved overall health that comes with it.
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure used to treat damage to the inner tissues of the tooth. This type of treatment is used to restore the tooth to its normal function, prevent further damage, and relieve pain. In this guide, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about root canal therapy and why you should get it.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure in which the inside of a tooth is cleaned and filled with a special material. The goal of the procedure is to save the tooth from further damage and relieve any pain that may be present.
During the procedure, the dentist will remove the damaged or infected tissue from the inside of the tooth, clean the area, and fill it with a special material called gutta-percha. The dentist may also place a crown or other type of restoration on top of the tooth to protect it from further damage.
How Does a Root Canal Work?
A root canal procedure is performed by a dentist or endodontist, a specialist in treating the inside of the tooth.
First, the dentist will numb the area and make an opening in the tooth to access the inside. Then, the dentist will use special tools to remove the damaged or infected tissue from the inside of the tooth, including the pulp, nerves, and blood vessels.
The rubber dam will be put in place around the impacted tooth to keep saliva away from the area during the procedure. This will help ensure the treatment is done in a clean and safe manner.
Signs You Should Get a Root Canal
1) Tooth Sensitivity
When a person has a damaged or diseased tooth, they may feel a sharp, sudden pain when eating or drinking something that is either very hot or very cold.
2) Oral Pain or Discomfort
If you feel persistent oral pain or discomfort, this could be a sign that you need a root canal. This can be especially true when the pain intensifies when eating or speaking.
The pain of an unhealthy or broken tooth can be told apart from the pain of a single, damaged tooth. But it can also spread to the gums and other nearby areas.
3) Swollen Gums
Gum disease is a common dental issue that can cause swollen, tender, and red gums. While it may be tempting to brush off the symptoms as minor, ignoring them can lead to more serious and costly issues.
In some cases, swollen, tender, and red gums can be a sign of infection, which can require a root canal if it has reached the tooth root.
Conclusion
Root canal treatment is a necessary procedure for treating tooth decay and can be a successful form of treatment for restoring health to the affected tooth.
Galleria Dental Arts can help you bring back your pearly white smile. We are a dentist in Manassas, VA, offering quality dental care and services for improved oral health. Get in touch with us today to learn how.
