Root canal: The procedure induces dread in people with just the mention of its’ name. “I need to have a root canal.” Someone complains and you answer: “Sorry to hear that.” However, if you ask most people what a root canal is or why they’re so painful, who knows what answer you’ll get. People tend to fear what they don’t understand but knowledge can go a long way towards alleviating those fears. Dr. Frederick Marra of Capital Region Complete Dental Care & Implants of Cohoes NY wants to give you some facts about the root canal.
When Is A Root Canal Necessary?
A root canal treatment or therapy is commonly referred to as simply a “root canal”. It becomes necessary when the soft tissues inside your tooth, known as the pulp, become infected. This usually happens due to deep decay (cavities) resulting from a chip or crack in the surface of your tooth. This infection in the pulp can spread down through the root canals of your teeth into your gum tissue. A very severe and painful infection called an abscess can form which is dangerous to your overall health.
Do I Need A Root Canal?
There are warning signs that you may need a root canal. One is sensitivity of a tooth to hot and cold or to touch or while chewing. Inflamed and sensitive gums around the tooth are also indicative of an infection in the root. Informing your as soon as possible dentist of any symptoms you may be having so that they can decide if a root canal is necessary and appropriate for your condition is recommended. Some dentists will perform root canals themselves while others will refer you to an endodontist. An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in treating the insides of your teeth.
Root Canal Procedure
A root canal treatment consists of your dentist or endodontist drilling down into the crown of your infected tooth and drawing out the infected pulp from inside the tooth and the root canals. As adults our teeth no longer require the pulp since your teeth will continue to be nourished by the surrounding tissues. A biocompatible material will be used to temporarily fill the now-empty space inside your tooth until restoration can begin. When tooth decay has compromised one of the roots and made the tooth unstable, a tiny metal rod is inserted down into the root to secure the tooth in place in your gums.
Restoration begins when a crown is created and installed over your compromised tooth. Your dentist or specialist will create the crown using advanced technology, matching it to the natural hue of your teeth, and will use it to cap the repaired tooth. In several days’ time, the swelling at the site will go down and the “new” tooth can be used to chew and be cleaned just like your natural teeth.
Root Canal Treatment in Cohoes NY
Root canals aren’t actually so scary after all. They’re a helpful procedure designed to alleviate pain and preserve your natural teeth. They help you to chew properly and smile confidently again. However, it’s easier to not need a root canal in the first place. Brushing twice daily, flossing daily and scheduling regular exams with Dr. Marra are all important steps to avoid needing a root canal, especially if your teeth have recently developed any chips or cracks. But if you do need a root canal, now you know there’s nothing to fear. If you’re in the Cohoes NY area and want to schedule with Dr. Marra, call (518) 650-1930 or schedule an appointment online.