What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental treatment option for tooth pain. Tooth pain is usually associated a cavity that has grown into the pulp of a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma, it can cause severe pain and lead to an abscess if left untreated.
During a root canal procedure, the dentist or endodontist removes the infected or damaged pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, and then fills and seals it with a material called gutta-percha. This helps to prevent further infection and preserves the tooth structure. In some cases, a crown may be placed on the tooth to provide additional strength and protection.
Root canals have a reputation for being painful, but with modern techniques and anesthesia, the procedure is usually no more uncomfortable than getting a dental filling. Additionally, root canals are highly effective in saving teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
Most patients would prefer to save their teeth and opt for doing a root canal instead of an extraction. To do so, you need to find a dentist who is capable of performing root canals. Pruitt & Earp Dentistry is one of those dental offices. They have multiple dentist who regularly perform root canals and stay up to day on CE courses and use the latest dental equipment. Visit us today so you can eat comfortably again.