When you visit Carolina Oaks Dental Care for a root canal, our friendly, caring team will ease any anxiety you may have by making sure you’re comfortable and relaxed during the entire procedure.
What is a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy is a common dental treatment performed to eliminate bacteria and inflammation inside of an infected tooth.
During the procedure, your dentist removes any decay or debris surrounding the area and then cleans out all of the tooth’s damaged pulp. Once the tissue has been removed, the empty space is filled with specialized dental materials designed to preserve the tooth and prevent further issues from occurring.
Though root canal surgery causes anxiety in a lot of patients, the procedure is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling and it’s often a one-time experience that yields results that can last a lifetime. Our team will ensure you’re relaxed and comfortable during the entire process.
When Do You Need a Root Canal?
Your trusted dentist in Anderson, SC may determine that a root canal procedure is necessary for a variety of reasons, which include:
- Abscesses or infections. If your tooth has become cracked or damaged, bacteria can get into the living tissue inside of the tooth, causing abscesses or infections.
- Injury or trauma. If one or more teeth have been damaged as the result of a sporting injury or an accident, then often a root canal is necessary to prevent or resolve infection in the area.
- Tooth decay. It is not uncommon for patients to have some decay, especially as the result of braces or retainers. However, without proper oral care, the decay can spread to the “pulp” inside the tooth.
Signs That You Need a Root Canal
The best way to know for certain that you need a root canal procedure is to contact your trusted dentist in Anderson, SC for an appointment. However, while you wait to meet with your dentist, here are a few common signals that a procedure is required:
- Inflammation and abscesses on the gums surrounding the tooth
- Recurring or consistent toothaches
- Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold food and beverages
It is also important to note that in many cases there are no symptoms which indicate that a problem is present. For this reason, it is essential to monitor your oral health by booking regular checkups with your oral health care professional to keep a close eye on the status of your teeth and gums.
What Can You Expect During Your Root Canal Procedure?
When schedule a root canal in Anderson, SC at our office, you can expect at least one visit. The dentist will need to fully extract the damaged or infected tissue from your tooth and repair it effectively. Here’s what happens:
- First visit. During this visit, your dentist will numb the tooth and remove any pulp, tissue, and other elements that may be present. The dentist will place a temporary filling to cover the opening and prevent further damage in between appointments.
- Final visit. On your last visit, your dentist will thoroughly clean the area and install a permanent filling or crown over the affected tooth.