Root canal treatment is a common oral health procedure used to restore comfort and oral function after a tooth has become infected. An endodontist may also perform this procedure to prevent the need for a tooth extraction.
If your dentist has recommended that you receive root canal treatment, you likely have some questions about this procedure and why it is necessary. Following are some helpful facts about root canal therapy and how it can benefit you.
Root Canal Facts and Treatment
The term “’root canal” actually refers to a part of a tooth’s anatomy. Inside a tooth is a hollowed chamber that contains dental pulp (cellular material) and the nerve endings of a tooth. In healthy teeth, the root canal is sheltered from oral debris and bacteria. If a tooth is cracked or decayed, however, this chamber can become infected.
Infected root canals can produce significant pain and prevent a person from enjoying comfortable oral function. If an infected root canal goes untreated, it can result in an abscess and the need for extraction. This is why root canal therapy might be recommended as it allows a person to keep their tooth.
Root canal treatment involves removing the infected tissue within a root canal. The root canal is then cleaned and sealed with a rubber-like compound. This procedure will eliminate the discomfort caused by an infection and restore oral function. Sometimes, a dental restoration such as a crown is necessary after treatment to protect the external structures of a tooth from debris and bacteria.
Why Visit a Specialist for Root Canal Therapy?
An endodontist is a specialist who focuses on treating issues that affect the inside of teeth. In addition to earning a DDS, these specialists also earn a master’s in endodontics and must pass rigorous board examinations to earn the credentials necessary to practice as a specialist. Visiting a specialist means that patients will receive highly focused care from an expert.
Call Access Endodontics to ask questions or to reserve a consultation.
