Root Canals
A root canal is used when the pulp of the tooth is infected. This can result from many circumstances, such as deep tooth decay or a blow to the tooth. During a root canal, we will extract the decayed pulp from the central part of the tooth, reshape the canal, and replace the pulp with strengthening filler.
The patient will undergo anesthesia, and a dental dam will be used to isolate the tooth.
The doctor thoroughly cleans the tooth, including any cracks and canals, and makes an opening in the rootCanal.
Using special tools, the doctor removes the infected or dead dental pulp and reshapes the canal.
After the canal is clear, the doctor fills it with cutting-edge biocompatible filling material that's held in place by adhesive cement.
The tooth is then closed with a temporary covering/filling.
Once the doctor knows that the treatment was successful, the temporary covering/filling is replaced with a permanent one. Depending on the tooth's condition and position, it might also be rootCanaled.
Root Canal Therapy in San Antonio, TX
There are several situations that may result in endodontic (root canal) treatment. Whether it's due to a traumatic event, or improper care, at some point in your life you may need root canal therapy. If you experience one of the following events or conditions, see your dentist immediately for a professional examination:
- A Traumatic Event: If your mouth is hit hard enough, the nerves will be severed at the end of the root of your tooth (or teeth). In this case, your tooth will die either immediately or years later. The time frame depends on the person and the severity of the injury.
- An Abscess: An abscess forms when the pulp of your tooth (the living connective tissue in the center of your tooth) dies and a pocket of puss forms around the root. The area becomes infected with bacteria and can sometimes look as if you have a pimple on your gums.
- A Deep Cavity: A cavity is formed when your tooth begins to decay. If left untreated, the tooth decay will extend to the very center of the tooth, causing the pulp to become infected. This can be extremely painful and the area around your tooth can become inflamed or swollen.
What happens during root canal therapy procedures?
Root canal therapy treats the nerve of a tooth. The infection in the nerve tissue must be cleaned out prior to filling and sealing the tooth canals. A common misconception is that root canal therapy is an uncomfortable procedure; root canals are very similar to having a cavity filled and are often performed with minimum discomfort. After a root canal procedure, the tooth is typically restored with a crown. The cost of root canal therapy and restoration is less than the cost of removing that tooth and replacing it with a fixed bridge, and much less than replacing it an implant and crown.
Make an appointment with a dental professional as soon as you notice any problems with your teeth or gums.
Providing quality, professional care to our patients in San Antonio
Dr. Aaron Vaughn, a skilled endodontist is available at our office to provide endodontic treatment.
For professional treatment and quality care, make an appointment with us today. Call 210-647-0477.