Root Canal Specialist

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a very advanced procedure that treats damage or decay affecting the inner portion of your tooth.

The inside of your tooth is filled with a tissue called pulp. Your pulp contains blood vessels and nerve endings, and when it’s damaged, it swells. The swelling pinches the nerve endings, which can be very painful.  

When you get a root canal, your dentist removes the damaged pulp inside your tooth and replaces it with a rubber-like compound. This is advantageous because it enables you to fix your damaged tooth without having to remove it entirely. 

How do I know if I need a root canal?

Some indications that your tooth might be damaged or infected include:

• Severe toothache
• Swelling or tenderness in your gums
• Darkened or discolored tooth
• Pain when you bite down
• A tooth that feels loose
• Pus around your gumline
• A small pimple (abscess) near your tooth root 

If you’re experiencing any of these conditions, book an appointment with Community Smiles immediately. They’ll inspect your mouth and assess whether you need a root canal.

In some cases, a damaged or infected tooth may not present any noticeable symptoms. Because of this, it’s important to maintain regular checkups with the team at Community Smiles. Your dentist can spot the signs of a damaged tooth early and save you a great deal of pain by treating it promptly.

Can I avoid getting a root canal?

If the team at Community Smiles suggests you need a root canal, it’s best not to delay your treatment. An infected or damaged tooth never gets better on its own, and the longer you wait, the more trouble it can cause. 

Avoiding a root canal may lead to several serious oral health concerns, like tooth loss and infection of nearby teeth. In some instances, the infection can even spread to your bloodstream, causing sepsis.

What does a root canal involve?

When you get a root canal, your dentist makes a small opening in the top of your tooth and uses a series of endodontic files to remove the damaged tissue. They clean and sterilize the inside of your tooth, then fill it with a compound called gutta-percha, which is similar to rubber.

After they seal the access hole in the top of your tooth, they fit you with a crown to restore the structure of your tooth and provide further protection. Community Smiles offers state-of-the-art, durable e.max® crowns.

To learn more about how a root canal can improve your oral health, schedule a visit with Community Smiles today by calling the office or making an appointment online.