ROOT CANALS
Dr. Carlos A. Alonso, DDS
What are root canals?
When you bite down and experience pain, you may think you have an annoying cavity. However, cavities are not the only dental problem that can lead to extra time in the dentist’s chair. A cavity is a hole in the enamel of the tooth, which can expose the nerves inside. In some cases, the problem is not the tooth exterior but in its interior. When there is a problem with the interior, it is time to think about a root canal.
Watch this video to learn more about root canals.
At the mention of a root canal, most people start to get uncomfortable. Root canals are associated with drilling and pain. However, do you know what a root canal is? While root canals are not typically fun, they are absolutely necessary. Therefore, be sure to educate yourself about the procedure in order to understand why it is ultimately worthwhile.
A root canal is a general procedure for more serious dental pain. A cavity can be filled, but sometimes the damage to the tooth is more profound. If the tooth is seriously injured or diseased, a quick fix to the surface will not be sufficient. That is why the dentist will usually opt for a root canal. Root canals are the best method to relieve pain. In fact, root canals have saved countless teeth that would have otherwise been pulled out.
What happens during a root canal?
During a root canal, a hole is drilled to access the inside of the tooth. Here, the dentist can clear out the inflamed pulp on the inside of the tooth. By cleaning the inside of the tooth, the source of irritation is removed. In order to prevent problems in the future and keep the tooth functioning normally, the pulp is replaced with a synthetic material. To finish the procedure, the tooth receives a crown to protect the area and maintain normal functionality in the mouth. Overall, a root canal will take between an hour and two hours.
Root canals are considered serious, but they are quite common. Moreover, the pain associated with a root canal is simply no longer an issue. All patients are given anesthesia for the procedure, which means that the pain associated with a root canal is the same as any other dental procedure. Afterward, the tooth may be sore for a few days, but recovery is usually quick and without complication.
Most people think that they need a root canal if they are experiencing pain in the mouth. While pain is definitely a symptom that can lead to a root canal, there may be other, more subtle symptoms. In fact, many patients report sensitivity to hot and cold stimulus first. If your tooth is sensitive to these elements, it can indicate that the interior of the tooth has been affected. In order to prevent further degradation of the tooth and complication, a root canal can be used to fix the problem.
If you are having problems with your teeth, then be sure to talk to a dentist you trust right away. Before considering a root canal, the dentist must thoroughly examine your teeth and look for other signs of problems first. An exam must visually inspect the teeth. Other tools may also be used to assess the overall condition of your teeth. Once a cavity is ruled out, a root canal may be considered as a course of treatment.
Before proceeding with any dental work, it is imperative to have a dentist you can trust in the local area. That is why Alonso Family Dental is here for you. Alonso Family Dental offers services in Missouri City and the surrounding communities. As a family practice, we can help every member of your family with normal dental needs. Alonso Family Dental is also skilled with cosmetic dentistry, which means we can take your smile to the next level. If you are worried about a root canal, call our office today to set up an appointment now.
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