The soft tissue in the center of your teeth, known as the dental pulp, can become infected, leading to pain, swelling, and other complications. At Lifeworks Dental, our dentists provide root canal therapy to remove the infected tissue, improve the health of your tooth, and protect your smile from further infection and damage. We are dedicated to preserving your natural teeth and helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a procedure designed to remove infected or damaged dental pulp from the interior of a tooth. The dental pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, and when it becomes infected, it can cause significant pain and lead to serious oral health issues if left untreated. Root canal therapy cleans out the infected tissue, disinfects the root canals, and seals the tooth to prevent further infection.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Severe Tooth Pain: Persistent or severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure.
- Swelling and Tenderness: Swelling, tenderness, or inflammation in the gums near the affected tooth.
- Prolonged Sensitivity: Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
- Discoloration: Darkening or discoloration of the affected tooth.
- Abscess: The presence of an abscess or pus around the infected tooth.
The Root Canal Procedure
- Diagnosis and Evaluation: Our dentists will perform a thorough examination and take X-rays to determine the extent of the infection and assess the need for root canal therapy.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area and ensure your comfort during the procedure.
- Access and Cleaning: A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access the infected pulp. The infected tissue is removed, and the root canals are carefully cleaned and disinfected.
- Filling and Sealing: The cleaned root canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent reinfection.
- Restoration: The tooth is restored with a filling or crown to protect it and restore its function and appearance.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
- Pain Relief: Root canal therapy alleviates the pain and discomfort caused by an infected tooth.
- Preserves Natural Tooth: The procedure allows you to keep your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction and replacement.
- Prevents Further Infection: Removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth prevents the spread of infection to surrounding tissues.
- Restores Function: A restored tooth functions normally, allowing you to chew and speak without discomfort.
Why Choose Lifeworks Dental for Root Canal Therapy?
At Lifeworks Dental, we are committed to providing exceptional dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Our experienced team uses the latest techniques and technology to ensure your root canal therapy is effective and pain-free. We take a personalized approach to your treatment, ensuring you receive the best care for your specific needs.