Root Canal Therapy
Sometimes, cracks, chips, damage, or decay can lead to inflammation or infection with the pulp of your tooth. If this happens, endodontic treatment is the best way to save your natural tooth. According to the American Association of Endodontists, over 15 million root canal procedures are performed annually.
What Is a Root Canal (Non-Surgical Root Canal)?
A root canal (also known as a non-surgical root canal, the endodontic procedure most commonly performed) is a dental procedure designed to treat inflammation or infection of the soft tissue of your tooth—the pulp. This is where blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues of the tooth are located. The purpose of the pulp is to help your tooth grow and help you sense hot and cold temperatures. Once the pulp has become inflamed or infected, root canal therapy is the only way to save your tooth. During treatment, the pulp tissues are removed, the canal space is disinfected and then filled. This procedure allows you to maintain your natural tooth, pain and infection-free. Usually, root canal therapy is completed in one or, occasionally, two visits.
Who Should Get a Root Canal?
Root canal treatment is the ideal treatment option for any patient in need. Dr. Ryan has performed well over 10,000 root canals on adult teeth for people between the ages of 5 and 100. If you want to save your tooth, Dr. Ryan can help! Prior to treatment, Dr. Ryan will assess your tooth to make sure saving your tooth is the best option. Some teeth may be too compromised to save. If so, Dr. Ryan may recommend another solution, such as extraction.
Common reasons for needing a root canal include:
- Deep decay, close to the pulp of your tooth
- A large or deep restoration (filling or crown)
- An older filling or crown that, over time, has irritated the pulp of your tooth
- A crack in your tooth, often from chewing, clenching, or grinding
- Trauma or injury to your tooth
Common symptoms of needing a root canal may include:
- Pain or sensitivity in your tooth
- Pain or swelling in your gums
- Pain with chewing or biting
- Spontaneous pain in your jaw
- Pain in your ear or headache-type pain
- Throbbing or a “heartbeat” in your tooth or jaw
Please spend a few minutes watching the videos below. They will help you better understand the root canal procedure and hopefully help calm any anxious feelings about treatment.
For further information regarding root canal treatment, please visit the following sites:
If your dentist has suggested that you see an endodontist for a root canal, we invite you to contact us today at (248) 633-2426.
