Owings Mills Dentistry
What is a Root Canal?
Root canals are procedures that involve removing the inner pulp of an infected tooth. If a tooth has become severely decayed or has a serious crack or break in it, we may recommend having a root canal performed. This procedure is easily and quickly done in our office. Root canals help to retain the structural integrity of a tooth while eliminating pain and discomfort.
Why would a Root Canal be needed?
When you need a root canal, you will more than likely experience toothache, pain and severe hypersensitivity. You might find that you cannot eat or chew properly because any time you apply pressure to the tooth, it hurts. The main reason for needing this procedure is due to decay. Once decay reaches the inside of the tooth to the pulp, the pulp has to be removed. Another reason for needing a root canal is because a tooth has broken enough to expose the pulp itself.
Who is a candidate for a Root Canal?
To determine if you might need a root canal, we will perform an exam and take x-rays as needed. We’re looking for areas of deep decay that have been able to infect the inner pulp of a tooth. Most often, patients will experience pain and sensitivity to hot and cold liquids. You should have a root canal performed as soon as possible after being told that you need one done.
What can be expected during a Root Canal?
We will begin by numbing the area with a local anesthetic. This makes the procedure more comfortable for you so that we can work effectively on restoring the tooth. A rubber dental dam allows the tooth to be isolated from the rest of the mouth. The decay is removed and the tooth is opened so that we can gain access to the pulp. The pulp is carefully taken out and the canals of the roots cleaned to remove any remaining pulp matter. We then fill these canals with a medicated material and place a missing inside of the tooth to close it off.
If you would like to schedule an appointment to come in for a root canal, call us today so that we can get you in for a convenient appointment.