Restorative Services
Root Canals
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a natural cavity within the center of the tooth that has a soft pulp chamber housing your tooth’s nerve. Without treatment, infection and decay can form on the gum surrounding your teeth. If you have an infected tooth, you should seek immediate attention.
Symptoms of Root Canal Problems:
- You experience severe tooth pain while chewing
- Gum tissue near tooth is swollen
- Heightened and prolonged hot or cold sensitivity
- Nerve damage
- Traumatic injury to the tooth
- Spontaneous Fracture
Root Canal Treatment
The root canal procedure involves removing the diseased tissue (nerve), stopping the spread of the infection and restoring the healthy portion of the tooth. A small hole is drilled through the top of the tooth and into the inner chamber. The nerve is removed, the inner chamber is cleaned and disinfected, and the canals are filled with an elastic material and medication designed to prevent infection. The hole is sealed and the recovery process begins.
Root Canal Aftercare
After the surgery, the tooth will feel sensitive for the first several days. Any pain that you experience can be treated with over-the-counter medication. You will want to rinse the tooth and the area around it several times a day. Brush and floss carefully around the area to avoid irritating the gum or the tooth. If you experience persistent pain after the first week, then root canal therapy may be an option.
Get Started
To schedule an appointment for a full dental exam at our dental office, or if you have a question about this service, fill out the form on our contact page, or call us directly at
517-371-5342.