The significance of undergoing a root canal procedure
Our teeth are made up of dental enamel, dentin, and pulp. Dental enamel is the outer shell, dentin is a softer layer beneath it, and the pulp is a soft tissue located beneath the dentin, containing connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels.
Normally, the pulp is well protected by enamel and dentin. However, if bacteria enter through a deep cavity, fracture, or trauma to the tooth, an infection can occur.
An infected tooth is usually very painful, and if left untreated, the pain will worsen. In such cases, the only option may be to remove the tooth, although this is not our first choice.
Missing teeth can cause oral health issues like bone loss and shifting of surrounding teeth. Root canal treatment can eliminate the infection, preserve natural teeth, and restore oral health. Compared to tooth extraction, root canal treatment involves less discomfort and shorter recovery times.
Indications that you may need a root canal treatment
Please be aware of the following signs that may indicate an infected or abscessed tooth:
- Severe toothache
- Jaw discomfort or inflammation
- Intense tooth sensitivity
- Gum bump resembling a pimple
- Puffy, red, or swollen gums
- Unpleasant taste or smell in mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms and suspect a tooth infection, please contact our dental office in Lakewood right away. An infected root canal requires immediate attention for your comfort and overall health and well-being.
What happens during a root canal procedure?
Root canals can be a source of anxiety for many patients, but there is no need to fear as it is not a scary procedure. Our dentists use advanced 3-D cone-beam imaging to carefully plan your treatment, allowing them to see the tooth in three dimensions. This technology helps our dentists accurately assess the tooth's anatomy and customize the procedure for each patient. With the use of anesthesia and this advanced technology, patient comfort is greatly improved, leading to better outcomes. Most patients feel significant relief after completing the procedure.
Your comfort is guaranteed by us
If you struggle with dental anxiety, we have the ideal solution for you. Our clinic offers oral sedation to help you feel relaxed during your dental procedure. We also provide neck pillows, blankets, and TVs in our treatment rooms to ensure your comfort and well-being.
Before beginning the procedure, our dentist will administer a strong local anesthetic to numb the tooth. This guarantees that you will not feel any pain during the treatment. If you came to our clinic in pain, you will experience immediate relief once the tooth is numb!