Root Canal Therapy

How Root Canal Therapy Saves Infected Teeth

The primary goal of root canal therapy is to eliminate pain and infection while saving the affected tooth. Inside each tooth are chambers and narrow passages that contain soft tissue known as pulp. When bacteria reach this tissue, they can cause severe pain, sensitivity, and swelling. The procedure removes the infected tissue, relieves discomfort, and helps protect the tooth from further complications. This treatment may also be necessary if the tooth has sustained cracks, fractures, or severe trauma from an injury.

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The Root Canal Procedure

A root canal clears infection from inside a tooth so you can keep the tooth. Modern techniques make treatment more comfortable than many people expect. Here is what happens at each step.

Local Anesthesia

Your dentist at Desert Pearl Dentistry will begin by applying a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth.

Comfort During Treatment

Local anesthesia numbs the tooth and the area around it, so you may notice pressure or movement but not pain. If you feel anxious about treatment, ask about sedation dentistry.

“you may feel pressure or movement during treatment, but you should not feel pain”

American Association of Endodontists, “Root Canal Pain & Comfort”

Accessing the Root Canals

A small opening is made in the tooth’s surface to access the infected root canals.

Reaching the Infection

A small opening in the top of the tooth lets the dentist reach the infected pulp inside. A temporary filling closes this opening once the canals are treated.

“Create an opening in the top of your tooth.”

American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, “Root Canals”

Cleaning and Disinfection

After removing the infected tissue, the dentist will thoroughly clean and disinfect the canals to ensure all bacteria is eradicated.

Clearing Out the Infection

Once the diseased pulp is taken out, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. This removes the source of the infection and the pain it causes.

“removing the diseased pulp from inside your tooth, cleaning and disinfecting it”

American Association of Endodontists, “Root Canal vs Extraction”

Filling the Canals

The cleaned canals are then filled with a biocompatible material to prevent future infections.

Sealing the Tooth

After cleaning, the canals are filled with a rubber-like material and sealed to help keep bacteria out. Your dentist will then likely recommend a dental crown to restore the tooth’s strength.

“fills the root canals with a biocompatible material”

American Association of Endodontists, “Root Canal Explained”

Schedule Your Root Canal Therapy Consultation

After root canal therapy, your dentist will likely recommend a crown to restore the tooth’s strength and function. This restoration helps the tooth withstand the pressures of chewing, preserving your smile for many years, potentially even a lifetime.

For more information about this treatment or to schedule an appointment, contact Desert Pearl Dentistry. We’re here to help you maintain your oral health and preserve your natural teeth.