East Indianapolis Dentist Restores Tooth Infections with Root Canal Therapy
In order to save the structure of a tooth that has been infected from a deep cavity or crack, root canal therapy is often utilized. This treatment involves the removal of the pulp and nerves of the tooth, and a cleaning of the infected area. The pulp and nerves are not needed for the tooth to survive once the tooth has emerged from the gums. If this treatment is not performed, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone, resulting in a high likelihood of tooth loss, and further pain or damage as a result.
What are the signs that a root canal is needed?
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Severe tooth pain while chewing
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Your tooth pain wakes you up at night
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Highly sensitive teeth
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Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
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Swollen gums in the area of the infected tooth
What does the treatment involve?
First, an opening will be made into the pulp chamber via the crown of the tooth. The pulp and nerves will then be removed, and the canal thoroughly cleaned. Depending on the severity and the doctor's recommendation, the procedure may be carried out over 2 visits. At this point, we would place a temporary crown on the tooth. At your return visit, we will remove this temporary crown, re-clean the canal, and then place the permanent filling or crown on the tooth.
Root canal therapy has a high success rate and can help save the structure of your tooth for a lifetime. Additionally, the crown or fillings placed will be made of composite resin, so no one may be able to tell you had the procedure performed beside you and your trusted East Indianapolis dentist.