What is a Root Canal?
When a tooth becomes infected, the infection can spread into the center of the tooth, where the dental pulp lives. Inside the dental pulp are nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels; all of the sensitive areas of the tooth are contained here. When the area becomes infected, it can be incredibly painful, requiring immediate treatment. If you’re searching for a dentist in Rockledge, Florida, we can help you address this issue swiftly and effectively.
An endodontic therapy procedure works by creating a small hole in the tooth so that all of the infected areas can be removed. The dental pulp is removed, and sometimes the roots of the tooth are removed as well. You only need your tooth roots to feel sensations like hot and cold and for the tooth to grow in. Once it has fully matured, removing the roots will not directly harm the tooth and can prevent the further spread of infection. If you’re in need of expert care, a dentist in Rockledge, Florida can perform this procedure to save your tooth and alleviate your pain.
When we are able to remove the tooth’s roots, we will do so. Once the infection is removed, we then clean the area to ensure that all remnants of the infection are completely gone. We will typically prescribe antibiotics to ensure the elimination of any lingering infection.
In order to complete the root canal treatment, we will seal up the hole where the dental pulp used to be. This is typically done with something called gutta-percha, which is a rubber-like substance that can help to stabilize the tooth after a portion is missing. Then, we place a filling or crown in order to further strengthen and protect the damaged tooth. Both fillings and crowns come in tooth-colored options, so the results look completely natural. If you need restorative care from a dentist in Rockledge, Florida, we are here to provide you with the treatment you need.
Advantages Of Root Canal Treatment
In the past, severely infected teeth or those with inflamed dental pulp often had to be pulled. Thanks to modern root canal treatment, these teeth can now be saved, which helps preserve the natural tooth and maintain the shape of your face. When teeth fall out, especially in groups, the muscles in your face can begin to sag. While losing a single tooth may not cause noticeable changes, the loss of several teeth can affect your facial appearance. By saving an infected tooth, we help maintain your facial structure.
After a root canal, a filling or crown restores the tooth’s strength and function, allowing you to eat without restrictions. Dental fillings are a cost-effective solution for smaller or less damaged teeth. They seal the tooth and restore its shape but may not provide the same long-term strength as a crown. On the other hand, dental crowns provide more strength, protection, and durability, making them ideal for teeth that are significantly weakened or used for heavy chewing. Crowns help prevent future damage and are especially useful for molars that experience more pressure during chewing.
Additionally, a tooth-colored crown or filling ensures that your restored tooth blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile, so no one will notice you had work done. This means you get a fully functional tooth that looks completely natural.
If you don’t have a root canal, your only other option may be an extraction, which is essential to preventing the spread of infection. Once the tooth is removed, it will need to be replaced. The options for doing so involve wearing a denture, getting a dental bridge, or having dental implants installed. These are all viable solutions but take additional time, and the recovery period is longer since the procedures require several steps.
Learn More About Endodontic Treatment Today
If you’re experiencing tooth pain and think you might be in need of root canal therapy, contact our Rockledge, FL general dentist. Dr. Hilary Prill is trained to perform endodontic procedures that will relieve your pain and restore your smile. Call us today at (321) 633-4020 or use our online contact form. We’re here to help.
