Root Canals Many patients come to our office with infected or inflamed teeth and ask if we can pull them out. Although tooth extraction is an option for a deceased, inflamed, or damaged tooth, it is not the first priority. The American Dental Association insists that dentists should first try conservative ways of treating damaged teeth. They also should consider saving a tooth first before suggesting an extraction. In fact, at Jerome Riddle DDS, we only consider extractions when the tooth is so badly damaged or infected that it cannot be repaired or saved. We also consider extractions if leaving the infected or damaged tooth risks the health and survival of the other surrounding teeth. Does Removing the Pulp Harm Your Tooth?The pulp plays a crucial role during the growth and development of a tooth. But after your tooth fully matures, it is able to survive even without the presence of pulp tissue since it can be nourished by the surrounding tissues. So if a diseased or infected pulp is removed, there may be no harm to the tooth. Root Canal Therapy ProcedureThe procedure of root canal treatment starts with an examination of the tooth. Our dentist takes X-rays and uses the radiograph to see inside the tooth, particularly the pulp chamber. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area. Once the area has been numbed, our dentist places a dental dam, a kind of protective sheet, over the area in order to isolate the tooth and ensure it remains free of saliva when the procedure is being conducted. The dentist drills a hole in the crown of the infected or inflamed tooth, then uses special instruments to clean the pulp within the pulp chamber as well as the root canals. Besides, the dentist shapes the hole or cavity for filling and then fills the root canal with a biocompatible filling material often referred to as gutta-percha. It is a rubber-like material and is usually placed using adhesive cement, making sure that it completely seals the root canals. Often, a temporary filling is installed to close the cavity, after which is removed later on when the tooth is being restored. During the last visit, our dentist will install a crown or other restoration on the tooth so that it remains protected and its function is restored. Caring for Your Mouth After Root Canal TherapyFirst, you should avoid biting or chewing on the side of the treated tooth until you have received a crown. Without a protective crown, the tooth is likely to fracture. Ensure you keep up with your daily oral hygiene to keep the tooth and the other teeth, as well as the gums clean. Floss and brush the teeth and gums. Make sure you regularly come into our office to let our dentist examine the restoration and perform cleanings. Soon after treatment, eat soft foods because they do not require much chewing. Foods like fish, yogurt, and applesauce or eggs are good for you during this time. Refrain from consuming hard foods since they can harm the treated tooth. Talk to us at Jerome Riddle DDS if you think that you may require root canal therapy. We will evaluate your case and determine if a root canal procedure is a suitable option. Dial 480-991-4410 to set up an appointment. |
