Are you experiencing severe tooth pain, sensitivity, or discomfort when chewing? You might be in need of a root canal. Root canals are dental procedures designed to treat teeth that have severe decay or infection. The process involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, then filling and sealing it. This treatment is often necessary to save a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed. At Roots Dental, our Meridian dentists, Dr. Bill Frei and Dr. Stephen Thomas, specializes in providing high-quality, comfortable root canal treatments to help patients preserve their natural teeth and restore oral health.
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Why Should I Get A Root Canal?
A root canal is not just about relieving pain; it's about preserving your natural teeth. When a tooth becomes severely decayed or infected, it can cause intense pain and potentially lead to more serious oral health issues if left untreated. A root canal can effectively alleviate pain, eliminate infection, and prevent the need for tooth extraction. By choosing to get a root canal, you are investing in the health and longevity of your teeth. Plus, with modern dental techniques and anesthesia, the procedure is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.
Did you know…
A root canal can save your natural tooth and prevent the need for dental implants or bridges.
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The Benefits Of Root Canals
Pain Relief
One of the primary benefits of a root canal is pain relief. An infected tooth can cause severe, persistent pain. A root canal procedure effectively removes the source of this pain - the infected or inflamed pulp. Once the procedure is complete, patients typically experience significant relief from pain.
Preservation Of Natural Teeth
Another key benefit of a root canal is that it allows for the preservation of your natural teeth. When a tooth is severely decayed or infected, the only alternative to a root canal is often extraction. However, keeping your natural teeth is always the best option for your oral health and function.
Prevention Of Further Infection
Finally, a root canal can prevent the spread of infection to other teeth or areas of the mouth. By removing the infected pulp, the procedure eliminates the source of infection, preventing further damage to your oral health.
The Root Canal Treatment Process
Diagnosis And Anesthesia
The first step in the root canal process is a thorough examination and diagnosis. If Dr. Frei or Dr. Thomas determines that a root canal is necessary, local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
Pulp Removal And Cleaning
Once the area is numb, Dr. Frei or Dr. Thomas will make an opening in the crown of the tooth and remove the infected or inflamed pulp. He will then thoroughly clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth to prepare it for filling.
Filling And Sealing
After cleaning, the tooth is filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The opening is then sealed with a temporary filling. After the tooth has healed, a permanent crown or filling will be placed to protect and restore the tooth to its full function.
Before & Afters
A smile is worth 1,000 words.
Frequently Asked Questions
