At Alexandria Dental Health & Smile Studio, we find that many patients have misconceptions surrounding 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 can often be 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 we discuss root canal therapy with Dr. Mazhari, including the benefits and why a patient might need root canal treatment to save a natural tooth.

Why Are Root Canals Necessary?

While not every patient will need a root canal, patients whose smiles have been impacted by trauma or decay are generally more in a position to need 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 your tooth 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

Patients who experience a tooth that’s darker in appearance than the other teeth, appearing gray or just a couple shades darker than normal, often is a sign that the tooth tissue has died and needs a root canal to restore its color and health.

What to Expect During a Root Canal Procedure with Dr. Mazhari

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 with us.

First, you’ll receive an initial exam with Dr. Mazhari to determine whether or not a root canal is the appropriate treatment for your condition. Dr. Mazhari will conduct a physical exam of your smile and take x-rays to determine what’s causing your symptoms.

If Dr. Mazhari determines that a root canal is needed to save your natural tooth, she’ll discuss the procedure at length with you. During a root canal procedure, 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 will be placed to further protect the tooth once the procedure is done. Dr. Mazhari may give you a temporary restoration until your final dental crown can be placed at a subsequent appointment.

Benefits of Having Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy saves your natural tooth and eliminates the need for a replacement such as a dental implant. Once your tooth has been cleaned and sealed, you can enjoy having your natural tooth 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.

After treatment, it’s essential to keep your regular dental appointments in order to ensure your smile remains healthy. For teeth that have received root canal therapy, a new crown may be needed every few years to continue protecting your natural tooth.

Are you experiencing tooth pain, swelling, or discoloration? If so, root canal therapy could save your tooth. Make an appointment with us at Alexandria Dental Health today to see if root canal therapy could help you protect your beautiful smile.