Is there another dental procedure more feared than the root canal? Root canals are easily the most feared dental treatment, but they are also one of the most beneficial. Our team at Silverleaf Dentistry of Longmont, CO is constantly working to put those root canal rumors to rest and prove that when it comes to proper dental care, there is nothing to fear. Keep reading and then give us a call at 720-504-2539 to discuss your options for taking back your oral health.
What Is A Root Canal?
At the center of each of your teeth, beneath the layers of enamel, is a much softer substance known as pulp. The pulp of a tooth contains nerves and blood vessels that are responsible for keeping your tooth alive and healthy. But the pulp is also where bacteria and the infections they cause can do the most damage. Most often, this happens when:
- A cavity reaches the pulp
- A tooth breaks, fractures, or chips
- A tooth is injured
In the event of any of the above circumstances, you can experience significant pain, potential infections, and other problems. A root canal is often the exact restorative treatment you need to fix the problem.
Root Canal Therapy: What to Expect
Root canal therapy is specifically designed to relieve pain, not cause it. During a root canal, infected material is removed from your tooth, protecting it from further damage.
When a patient comes to our office for a root canal, the first thing we will do is take an X-ray to pinpoint the location of the source of the problem. Once it is determined that a root canal is the best treatment option for you, we will begin the process of relieving your symptoms.
Here is what you can expect our team to do during a typical root canal procedure:
- Numb the affected area to ensure the procedure is pain-free
- Apply a small sheet of material to the affected tooth to help it stay dry
- Open the tooth so we can access the infected or damaged pulp
- Clean and remove any pulp that cannot be saved
- Apply a temporary filling to protect against further problems
After the treatment is complete, we will likely send you home with pain medication to help with any soreness and discomfort you may experience, as well as antibiotics to further fight the infection. We will then have you come back for a follow-up appointment during which we will place a permanent solution like a dental crown to further protect the tooth from damage.
With all the latest technology and techniques at our disposal, root canal therapy is no more uncomfortable than a standard dental filling procedure. Our team will ensure you are comfortable throughout your procedure, so you can get back to feeling like your usual self in no time at all.
If you are suffering from a nagging toothache, don’t let another day go by without calling our office. Call Silverleaf Dentistry at 720-504-2539 today to schedule an appointment in Longmont, CO. Let your fear be a thing of the past and find out today how we can ensure you have a much better tomorrow.