The thought of “root canals” can strike fear into your heart, but it is actually a fairly easy endodontic treatment that can save a decayed or damaged tooth. With current advancements in anesthetics and treatment options, the procedure can be a nearly painless one that saves you from years of toothaches in the future.
What Is the Root Canal Procedure?
Getting root canals in Lumberton, TX is a fairly simple process. First your dentist or endodontist will use a local anesthesia to numb your tooth. He or she will then apply a protective sheet called a “dental dam” to keep the subject tooth protected and isolated from the other teeth. The dentist will then make an opening in the crown of the tooth and clean the pulp from the pulp chambers and the root canals. After the areas are cleaned and shaped, a rubber-like substance called “gutta-percha” is used in conjunction with a cement to seal the cleaned areas. To finish off the process, a filling or crown will be applied to the tooth to completely seal the tooth and protect the inner chambers. The procedure is mostly painless, but it is noted that people can be subject to increased sensitivity for a period of time after it is complete.
How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal?
Sometimes there are no symptoms at all to tell you that you may need the treatment and you will only become aware through x-rays. Other times symptoms can show as pain, sensitivity to heat or cold for a long period of time, swelling, trouble chewing, or discoloration. Root canals become needed when the pulp in the tooth becomes infected or irritated and starts causing discomfort. You can become a candidate for the treatment if you have had an infected or damaged tooth. Even a cracked, chipped, or damaged tooth can progress into a tooth that needs to be treated.
The procedure has changed immensely over the years and should not be feared anymore. If you are having pain or discomfort with any of your teeth, speak with your dentist about Lumberton root canals and see if it is the proper treatment choice for you.
