What is a Root Canal?

Today, most of us suffer from tooth decay problems. The easy availability and high consumption of various kinds of junk food have made tooth decay problems common in individuals of all ages.

The decay can increase without our knowledge and reach the root canals of our tooth, causing inflammation, pain, or death of the canal’s nerves. Root Canal treatment is the only treatment suggested by the dentist in Murfreesboro TN to save such damaged teeth.

What is Root Canal treatment in Murfreesboro, TN?

A root canal is a dental procedure performed to treat and save a severely damaged or infected tooth. During a root canal, the dentist or endodontist removes the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from inside the tooth, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and seals them to prevent further infection. Here is an overview of the root canal procedure:

Root Canal Procedure

• Assessment:Before performing a root canal, the dentist in 37129 will examine the tooth and take X-rays to evaluate the extent of the damage or infection. Common reasons for needing a root canal include deep decay, a cracked or fractured tooth, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or trauma to the tooth.

• Anesthesia: To ensure patient comfort during the procedure, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and surrounding tissues. In some cases, sedation dentistry techniques may also be used to help patients relax during the procedure.

• Access and Removal of Pulp:Once the tooth is numb, the dentist will create an opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. Using specialized instruments, the dentist carefully removes the infected or damaged pulp tissue from inside the tooth and root canals.

• Cleaning and Shaping:After removing the infected pulp, the dentist cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth and root canals using antibacterial solutions. The root canals are then shaped to prepare them for filling and sealing.

• Filling and Sealing:Once the root canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to replace the removed pulp tissue and seal the canals to prevent bacteria from re-entering. The opening in the top of the tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling material.

• Restoration:After completing the root canal procedure, the dentist may recommend placing a dental crown or other restoration on the tooth to restore its strength, function, and appearance. A crown covers the entire tooth above the gumline and provides protection and support for the weakened tooth structure.

Some minor pain or discomfort may last for a couple of days after the process. Call us to learn more.

Benefits of Root Canal

• It prevents the spreading of infection to the surrounding teeth.
• It saves your tooth from further infection and restores it to healthy condition to function normally.
• Tooth preservation helps to keep the jawbone intact.
• The natural-looking crowns placed provides an aesthetic look, maintaining your beautiful smile.
• Helps in the enhancement of oral health and hygiene.

Overall, a root canal is an effective treatment option for saving a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted due to severe damage or infection. With proper care and maintenance, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can function normally for many years. If you have a toothache or suspect you may need a root canal, it is essential to seek prompt dental care to prevent further complications and preserve your oral health.
 If you would like to know more about how we can help, please call Dentist in Murfreesboro TNat (615) 624-6919, book an appointment online, or visit us at 206 A N Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro, TN 37129.