Cartoon Dentist Explaining Tooth Anatomy
Uh-oh! Have you been told that you need a root canal but feel terrified at the prospect? It’s natural to imagine the worst since these procedures have such an awful reputation! But not to worry – this article will explain each step of your visit so you’ll know what to expect from root canal treatment in Huntsville. An endodontist – a dentist who has received years of advanced training to specialize in root canals – will also explain why you might need this procedure to begin with. With this information, you’ll have a better understanding of how a root canal will benefit you and will feel more reassured before your appointment date arrives.
Why Is a Root Canal Necessary?
A root canal is necessary when a tooth has an infected pulp (also called the nerve canal). This can happen when a large cavity or fracture extends deep into the tooth, or when an injury causes irreversible trauma to the nerve.
When an infection is present, it must be removed to keep it from spreading to larger areas in the mouth or causing an abscess. This can be done by removing the entire tooth or simply removing the infected pulp from the tooth. This is how root canals can prevent you from losing teeth.
If you need root canal therapy in Huntsville, your general dentist can refer you to an endodontist after determining that it’s necessary to save your tooth.
What Is the Procedure Like?
First, your “endodontist near me” will make sure you’re completely numb before starting. Part of the reason root canals have such a bad reputation is that they were once done without adequate numbing.
Thanks to modern dentistry, those days are over! In fact, many people are surprised at how easy and painless the procedure is. Here are the next steps in the root canal process:
- A dental dam will be placed over your tooth, which is a thin layer of rubber designed to keep your tooth dry and isolated from the saliva in your mouth. This part may feel awkward, but it won’t be uncomfortable.
- A very small opening will be made in the chewing surface of the tooth. This allows access to the inside of the tooth.
- Extremely small cylindrical files will be used to remove the infected pulp and clean out the canal that contains the nerve. This is the most time-consuming part of the procedure, but you won’t feel a thing!
- After the canal has been thoroughly cleaned and there is no infected tissue remaining, a rubbery material called gutta-percha will be used to fill in the space.
- The final step is placing a temporary filling to close the small opening in the surface of the tooth.
Since a root canal removes the blood supply to a tooth and can make it brittle, your general dentist will recommend a crown as the last step to restore the tooth’s strength and function.
About the Author
Dr. Deborah Bishop is a highly accomplished endodontist in Huntsville who has gone above and beyond to set herself apart in her field. From taking on leadership roles, investing in state-of-the-art technology and receiving numerous awards for her professional accomplishments, she consistently makes excellence her top priority. She can be reached for questions via her website, or at (256) 882-5161.