Root Canal Therapy
WHAT IS A ROOT CANAL?
Inside of each of our teeth is a pulp chamber in which blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue are found. When this pulp becomes infected due to a fracture in the tooth, deep decay, or trauma, it becomes essential to remove the infection to prevent tooth loss and other potential consequences. This infection is removed by the procedure known as root canal therapy and is a safe and effective way to preserve your smile's quality and appearance.
Symptoms of Tooth Infection
Symptoms of tooth infection that indicate the requirement of a root canal treatment include:
- Severe toothache
- Pain while chewing or biting
- High sensitivity to heat and cold
- Bad breath
- Swelling of lymph nodes in the neck
- Facial swelling
- Fever
Root canal procedure
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you likely have an infected and/or abscessed tooth. If left untreated, this can lead to tooth loss and systemic infection. Though there is a popular misconception that root canal treatments can be painful, in reality, they are no more uncomfortable than a traditional filling.
During the root canal procedure, Dr. Gengo makes a small access opening in the tooth, and using endodontic files, he cleans and shapes the small, thin canal(s) of the tooth. Once clean, a biocompatible material is placed within the canals with a special adhesive cement to ensure that no more bacteria or debris enter the canal. Your general dentist will then place a post and crown, if required, to restore the tooth.
If you suspect that you have any of these symptoms, please call Queen City Endodontics to book an appointment at (716) 815-3636.