How we save deeply damaged teeth with root canal therapy
At Piedra Dental Group, Dr. Alejandro Piedra can preserve even badly damaged teeth. Root canal therapy removes damaged tissue, stops disease progression, and helps our patients in and around Cooper City, Florida, avoid tooth loss and extractions.
Root canal therapy is a very common procedure. It has a reputation of being undesirable and painful. But when done properly it is actually painless. Every tooth in your mouth is composed of a crown and a root. When a cavity or bacteria penetrates the tooth, the root and its nerves become irritated. As a result, the bacteria within the pulp cavity needs to be removed and cleaned in order to restore the tooth to its healthy state. Following the procedure, the tooth is fragile and consequently is restored with the natural crown for a lifetime of durability. Root canals have a success rate of 95% or greater. Most root canal are diagnosed by patients’ sensitivities to a specific tooth. Be sure to consult your dentist any symptoms or discomfort occur.
What is a “root canal”?
This nonsurgical procedure involves accessing the inside of the damaged tooth, specifically the root canals that contain the pulp. The innermost pulp chamber houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. When these tissues become infected or inflamed, they can threaten the tooth’s health. Our dentist simply removes the damaged tissues, sterilizes the treated areas, and seals off the tooth to protect it and encourage healing.
Are there any signs that I might need treatment?
Deep, internal damage often results from untreated tooth decay. So, you may notice:
- Jarring and intense pain when biting down
- Sensitivity that lingers long after the source of the hot, cold, or sweet sensation has been removed
- Gums that are swollen and feel tender when you touch them
- Dark, dusky gums
- Persistent bad breath
- A foul taste in the mouth
Of course, every patient is different. Some patients may have extensive, even irreparable, damage to a tooth before the symptoms become hard to ignore. If it’s been a while since you last saw a dentist or are concerned about any changes with a tooth, we encourage you to contact us right away so we can evaluate your mouth.
Will I feel anything during treatment?
No. Your teeth will be anesthetized or numbed beforehand. If anything, our patients express great relief following treatment. With the nerves and source of the infection/damage gone, they no longer feel pain. Patients often regret not undergoing treatment sooner.
How do I care for my tooth afterward?
Piedra Dental Group offers aftercare instructions. It is generally recommended that you avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the treated tooth is located until you start to feel better. Additionally, please remember to schedule follow-up appointments at our office in Cooper City, Florida. Notably, we must restore the tooth after root canal treatment. Typically, this step involves placing a dental crown.
Failure to restore the tooth promptly with a crown can lead to complications. The tooth may not heal, or it may be vulnerable to additional damage. One of the best things you can do for your tooth is to strengthen it with a dental crown. Otherwise, it may remain weak and susceptible to fracture. By taking proper steps, you assure the long-term health and function of your preserved tooth. Often, no further treatment is needed, and root canal therapy has a success rate exceeding 97%.
Tooth loss does not have to be in your future. We can help you to preserve the best tooth – your natural one! Call (954) 329-0673 to schedule an appointment at our office today.
