Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment is a reliable procedure that can save an infected tooth from extraction. It will restore your mouth's natural appearance and keep it healthy. Experience relief and restoration with root canal treatments at DeFuniak Springs Family Dental.
Quit Suffering So You Can Smile Again
At DeFuniak Springs Family Dental, we understand the anxiety that can accompany the words “root canal.” However, with advancements in dental techniques and anesthesia, root canal treatments have become a routine, pain-managed procedure aimed at relieving tooth pain and saving your natural tooth.
Our skilled dental team is committed to ensuring your comfort and providing the highest quality care, utilizing state-of-the-art technology to restore your dental health and smile.
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What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that aims to remove bacteria from an infected root canal, prevent further tooth infections, and preserve the natural tooth. The pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, is located inside the tooth and can become infected. A root canal treatment involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canal, and filling it with a special material to prevent further infection. This procedure can save the natural tooth and prevent the need for extraction. If it becomes infected or inflamed, root canal treatment is often necessary. Symptoms leading to a root canal include severe toothache, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, and swelling or tenderness in the nearby gums.
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How is root canal treatment performed?
Root canal treatment involves several steps, typically completed over one or more visits to your dentist:
- Diagnosis and X-ray: Your dentist will take an X-ray to examine the shape of the root canals and determine if there are any signs of infection in the surrounding bone.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to the affected tooth to ensure comfort during the procedure.
- Pulpectomy: An opening is made in the crown of the tooth, and the infected or inflamed pulp is removed from the pulp chamber and root canals.
- Cleaning, Shaping, and Filling: The canals are then cleaned, shaped, and filled with a biocompatible material to prevent bacteria from re-entering the root canal system.
- Sealing and Restoration: Finally, the opening in the tooth is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling, and in most cases, the tooth will need a crown to protect and restore it to full function.
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How long does the pain from a root canal last?
While root canal procedures have a reputation for being painful, most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure thanks to modern anesthesia and techniques. Post-procedure pain is typically mild and can last for a few days, easily managed with over-the-counter pain medications. It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to minimize discomfort and ensure a smooth recovery. If pain persists or worsens, it’s crucial to contact your dentist as it may indicate the need for further treatment.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about root canal treatment, please contact our office, and we will be happy to discuss further.
