Root Canals

A root canal is a dental procedure performed to treat infection or damage within a tooth's pulp, which is the innermost layer containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures, it can cause severe pain, sensitivity, and swelling.

During a root canal procedure, the infected or damaged pulp is removed, the root canal system is cleaned, disinfected, and sealed, and the tooth is restored with a dental crown or filling. Root canals are necessary to alleviate pain, preserve the natural tooth structure, prevent the spread of infection, and restore oral health and function. 

What Conditions Would Require Root Canal Treatment?  

• Advanced tooth decay can penetrate deep into the tooth, reaching the pulp tissue and causing infection and inflammation. When left untreated, this can lead to severe pain, abscess formation, and eventual tooth loss. Root canal treatment in Flat Rock, NC, is often necessary to remove the infected pulp and preserve the remaining tooth structure. 
• Dental trauma, such as a cracked, fractured, or broken tooth, can expose the inner pulp to bacteria, leading to infection and inflammation. Root canal treatment may be required to address the damage, alleviate pain, and prevent further complications. 
• Pulpitis, inflammation of the dental pulp, can result from untreated tooth decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. This condition often manifests as severe toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, and swelling. Root canal treatment is essential to remove the inflamed pulp and relieve symptoms. 
• Dental abscesses, pus-filled infections around the tooth root, can develop due to untreated pulpitis or severe tooth decay. Root canal therapy is necessary to drain the abscess, eliminate the infection, and save the tooth from extraction. 
• Persistent tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures may indicate underlying pulp damage or infection, especially when accompanied by pain or discomfort. Root canal treatment can address the sensitivity source and relieve discomfort. Contact us today! 

The Procedure of Root Canal Treatment  

Initial Evaluation and Diagnosis 

The root canal procedure typically begins with an initial evaluation and diagnosis by dentist in Flat Rock, NC , may suspect that the pulp of your tooth is infected or inflamed. Our dentist will determine whether root canal therapy is necessary to save the tooth through a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the extent of damage. 

Anesthesia and Access 

Once the decision is made to proceed with root canal therapy, our dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the affected area and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Next, a rubber or dental dam is placed around the tooth to isolate and keep it clean and dry during the procedure. The dentist will then create an access opening in the top of the tooth to reach the infected or damaged pulp. 

Removal of Infected or Damaged Pulp 

Our dentist will carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth and root canals using specialized instruments. This process involves cleaning and shaping the root canal system to eliminate bacteria, debris, and infected tissue. The dentist may use irrigating solutions to flush out any remaining debris and disinfect the root canals thoroughly, ensuring a clean and sterile environment for the next step of the procedure. 

Filling and Sealing 

Once the root canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled and sealed with a biocompatible gutta-percha material to prevent recontamination and seal off the tooth from bacteria. A temporary filling may sometimes be placed in the access opening to protect the tooth between appointments. After the root canals are sealed, the dentist will restore the tooth's structure and function with a permanent filling or crown to strengthen and protect it from further damage. 

Restoration and Follow-Up 

Depending on the extent of damage to the tooth, a final restoration, such as a dental crown, may be placed to restore its shape, size, and appearance. The crown protects the tooth and restores its functionality, allowing you to bite and chew comfortably. After the root canal procedure is complete, our dentist will provide instructions for postoperative care and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the success of the treatment. 

The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy 

• Alleviates severe tooth pain and discomfort caused by infection or inflammation. 
• Preserves the natural tooth structure, preventing the need for extraction. 
• Restores oral health and function, allowing patients to chew and speak easily. 
• Prevents the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and tissues. 
• Eliminates the need for more extensive and costly dental procedures. 
• Provides long-lasting results with proper care and maintenance. 
• Maintains the smile's aesthetics by preserving the appearance of the natural tooth. 
• Enhances overall well-being by relieving symptoms associated with dental problems, such as headaches or facial swelling. 
• Supports the surrounding teeth and prevents them from shifting out of alignment.

Root canal treatment is a lifeline for individuals grappling with severe tooth decay, infection, or trauma, offering a chance to preserve natural teeth and maintain oral health. If you're experiencing persistent tooth pain, sensitivity, or other symptoms of pulp damage, visit Upwards Dental at 777 S Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731, or call (828) 595-9177 to determine if root canal treatment is the right solution for you.