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Root Canal Therapy
The idea of a root canal can be unsettling, but it’s a simple and effective way to save a damaged tooth. With modern techniques, the procedure has also become quicker, more precise, and more comfortable than ever.
If you're experiencing tooth pain, root canal therapy can restore your oral health and help you avoid more invasive treatments.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a procedure that’s necessary when the pulp (the inner tissue of the tooth) becomes infected or inflamed, often due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma to the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread, causing severe pain, abscesses, or even tooth loss.
Signs that indicate you may need a root canal include persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, and gum tenderness near the affected tooth. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?
A root canal procedure involves several steps to remove infection and restore your tooth. First, we apply a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth, ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
We then create a small opening at the top of the tooth to access the infected pulp. The next step is to carefully remove the infected tissue, clean the inner chamber, and disinfect the area to eliminate any bacteria.
Once the infection is cleared, we fill the empty space with a biocompatible material to seal the tooth and prevent future infections. In many cases, a crown is placed on the tooth to restore its strength and protect it.
How Can I Tell If My Root Canal Was Successful?
For a root canal to succeed, it's essential that all infected tissue and bacteria are completely removed. If any infected tissue remains, the bacteria can continue to damage the tooth, leading to reinfection. In some cases, this may result in the need for further treatment, or in extreme cases, a tooth extraction
Once the procedure is complete, we’ll monitor the healing process to ensure the infection is fully gone and your tooth is functioning as it should.
Recovery Tips After Root Canal Therapy
- Take it easy during the first few days after your root canal to allow your body to heal.
- Stick to softer foods for the first few days, and avoid raw vegetables, chewing on ice, or anything too hard that could put strain on the tooth.
- Be sure to attend any follow-up appointments so we can ensure your tooth is healing properly.
- If you experience any discomfort, over-the-counter pain medication can help. If the pain persists, contact us for advice.
After your tooth has fully healed, it will regain normal function, free from the pain or sensitivity you felt before the procedure.
Need Root Canal Therapy?
Experiencing tooth pain? Don’t wait any longer for relief. Contact Valley Dental today to schedule a consultation. Our team can guide you through the process and help restore your tooth, so you can enjoy a pain-free smile once again.