Teeth affected by cavities often affect the enamel layers, but when left long enough can reach deep into the dentin and pulp layers of the tooth, causing infection and pain. When infection sets in, our team can provide root canal treatment to clean out the infection and save your tooth from traumatic tooth pain.
How Root Canal Treatment Can Save Your Tooth
Many tooth problems often involve infections that spread to the pulp. The pulp area resides in the tooth and reaches into the root canals. Root canals are microscopic passageways that branch off from the bottom of the tooth. The pulp contains the tooth’s blood vessels, nerves, and soft tissues that keep our teeth active and alive.
When infection sets in the pulp, it can affect the roots, leading to severe pain, sensitivity, and inflammation. These infections can quickly occur from severe tooth decay, tooth cracks, traumatic injuries, and even poor dental work. It can bring out a host of problems and even lead to tooth loss if not treated immediately.
To protect your teeth, our team provides root canal treatments. During your initial consultation, Dr. Raj Khurana will thoroughly examine your dental and medical history, examine your oral health, and perform screenings to diagnose the cause of your dental pain. After the examination and cleaning, our dentist will provide recommendations for treatment, and if a root canal treatment is needed, schedule an appointment for the procedure.
Dr. Raj Khurana will perform the procedure in the following steps:
- Tooth Preparation: In order to prepare you for the surgery, an anesthetic will be administered to numb the tooth and the surrounding area.
- Opening and Removal: Once prepared, a drill will be used to reach through the surface of the affected tooth, providing access to the inner pulp chamber and root canals. Next, microscopic instruments are used to remove the dead or infected pulp tissue from inside the roots.
- Disinfect and Reshaped: After the pulp is removed, the chamber and canals are then cleaned and disinfected, and tiny canals are reshaped.
- Filling and Crown: Once fully cleaned and reshaped, the area will receive biocompatible material and medication to prevent infection. After the material is placed, adhesive cement is used to seal the opening, and a dental crown will be fabricated to be placed onto the tooth.
Myths About Rooth Canal Treatment
There are several myths surrounding root canal treatment that have contributed to its negative reputation. Let’s debunk some of these myths:
1. Root canal treatment is painful: With modern advancements in dental techniques and anesthesia, root canal treatment is virtually painless. The pain that is associated with the procedure is caused by the infection in the tooth, not the treatment itself.
2. Root canal treatment causes illness: There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that root canal treatment causes systemic illnesses. This myth originated from outdated research and has been debunked by numerous studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does a root canal treatment hurt?
A: Modern techniques and anesthetics make root canal treatment virtually painless. You may experience some discomfort post-treatment, which can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers.
Q: How long does a root canal procedure last?
A: Generally, a root canal can take one to two appointments, each lasting about 90 minutes.
Root Canal Treatment Provided at Dental Care 4 U
At Dental Care 4 U, we work to foster positive experiences at our dental office through regular visits and treatment options to prevent tooth decay and keep your smile healthy. If you need a root canal treatment or are experiencing dental pain that is unbearable, contact our practice today in Holland, IL, to speak with Dr. Raj Khurana for an appointment. Operating for over 20 years, our team has served families everywhere with bread-and-butter dentistry that’s reliable, affordable, and family-friendly. No matter the time, you’ll always see the same dentist and experience quality care that feels like home. Call us today to schedule an appointment!