At Alexandria Dental Health & Smile Studio, we find that many patients have many questions about root canal therapy. Why patients need root canal therapy, what symptoms it can resolve, and what the procedure is actually like, are all questions that pertain to having a root canal that is often distorted. Root canal therapy has evolved with technology and today, most patients report that getting a root canal procedure is a comfortable experience, and doesn’t feel much different than getting a cavity filled. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Are Root Canals Necessary?
While not every patient needs a root canal, those whose smiles have been impacted by trauma or decay often benefit from this form of restorative dental treatment.
Root canals are necessary when the tissue inside the tooth has died. In the center of your tooth, nerves and blood vessels keep it healthy and alive. Due to trauma, decay, or even infection, the nerves may die and cause symptoms such as:
- A painful tooth abscess
- Tooth discoloration
- Tooth pain or tooth sensitivity
- Gum irritation or swelling
For patients with a tooth that’s darker in appearance than the other teeth—maybe gray or just a couple of shades darker than normal—this is often a sign that the tooth tissue has died and needs a root canal to restore its color and health.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy With Dr. Mazhari
In many cases, root canal therapy saves your natural tooth and eliminates the need for a replacement with a dental implant. Once your tooth has been cleaned and sealed, it should be healthy for years to come.
Without root canal therapy, a painful infection or even a tooth abscess can ensue, both of which can be dangerous and even life-threatening if left untreated.
What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure
Dr. Mazhari is a trained and experienced Alexandria dental professional who performs root canals for her patients. During your appointment at Alexandria Dental Health & Smile Studio, we make every effort to ensure you’re comfortable.
- First, you’ll receive an initial exam with Dr. Mazhari to determine whether or not a root canal is an appropriate treatment for your condition. She then conducts a physical exam of your smile and takes X-rays to determine what’s causing your symptoms.
- If the recommended course of treatment is root canal therapy, she’ll discuss the procedure at length with you. Generally, the dead or infected tissue is removed through a small hole that’s made in the tooth, and the tooth will then be cleaned and sealed with a biocompatible material to prevent the possibility of future problems.
- For many patients, a dental crown is placed on the tooth to further protect it once the procedure is complete. Dr. Mazhari may give you a temporary restoration until your final dental crown can be placed at a subsequent appointment.
After treatment, it’s essential to keep your regular dental appointments in order to ensure your teeth remain healthy. For those that received root canal therapy, a new crown may be needed every few years to continue protecting them.