Root canal therapy or endodontic therapy is a dental procedure that involves the removal of the damaged tooth pulp.
The root canal is the hollow part of a tooth that includes nerve tissue, blood vessels. A tooth is made up of two parts: the crown and the root. The crown of the tooth is above the gum line, while the root is below. The pulp found inside the crown and the root canal nourishes the tooth and keeps the surrounding tissue moist.
People with an infected, injured, or damaged root canal are given root canal therapy. Removal of the damaged or infected pulp is the best way to save a tooth. Some other causes of infection or damage to the tooth pulp are chipped or cracked tooth, multiple dental procedures on the same tooth, injury to the tooth, or severe tooth decay. Pain, swollen gums, sensitivity to hot and cold, tender gums, difficulty chewing, and tooth discoloration are all indications of root canal infection.
Step 1: Anesthesia
We will apply a small amount of numbing medication on your gums around the damaged tooth and then inject local anesthesia that will keep you from feeling any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
Step 2: Removing the pulp
A small opening will be made on the top of the tooth to expose the damaged pulp. We will then use special dental tools and carefully remove the pulp.
Step 3: Antibiotics
To eliminate the chances of reinfection and promote proper healing, we will coat the area with antibiotics after it is properly cleaned. Then your teeth will be temporarily filled to promote healing.
Step 4: Tooth Restoration
After your tooth has healed, it will be weak due to a lack of nourishment. So, a porcelain crown will be placed to restore your tooth.
After the procedure, your tooth and gums may feel sore. The day after that, you should be able to resume your normal routine. Avoid chewing on the injured tooth until it has been properly filled or a crown has been set on top of it. You will be called for follow-up consultations to make sure there's no reinfection.
Please reach out to our dental practice in Anaheim Hills, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist. Please call Dentist Anaheim Hills at (714) 974-0949 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.
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