Root Canal Therapy
Root canals always get a bad rap, but they are actually a wonderful thing! Is it the most pleasant experience getting a root canal? No. But a root canal allows an otherwise doomed tooth to be saved. The problem with root canals is they are usually done on teeth that are ALREADY in pain. What has typically happened is a tooth has experienced some trauma or a cavity has gotten so deep that the nerve of that tooth gets inflamed or infected. That is when the pain hits and in order to restore the tooth back to health, a root canal must be done.
The Anatomy
Each pearly white tooth in each person has a root (typically 1-3 roots per tooth). In each one of those roots is a canal. That canal contains pulpal tissue consisting of nerves and blood vessels that keep teeth alive and well. When the tooth's pulp gets inflamed or infected, it must be removed and the canals sealed off. This is the idea behind root canal therapy.
The Process
There are two stages of root canal therapy. The first stage consists of accessing the pulpal tissue and removing the infected or inflamed nerves. At this point, it is sometimes a good idea to place some medicine in the tooth and allow it to heal for a few weeks. After a sufficient amount of healing has taken place, the tooth is then sealed. That is the second stage. It prevents any bacteria or other pathogens from re-entering the tooth and re-infecting the canals. In most cases, when the therapy is approached in this manner, there is no discomfort or pain. In some instances there is a little tenderness, but rarely is there any pain that requires medication.
Again, root canals are a wonderful way to prevent losing an otherwise doomed tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
A cavity is a small hole that forms inside the tooth because of tooth decay. Cavities are formed when plaque buildup on the outside of the tooth combines with sugars and starches in the food you eat. This produces an acid that can eat away the enamel on your tooth. If a cavity is left untreated, it will eventually cause pain and can lead to more serious oral health problems including infections and abscesses. Cavities can be prevented by remembering to brush your teeth at least two times a day and floss between teeth at least once.
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is mostly caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that is not treated in its early stage. Other causes of periodontal disease include tobacco use, teeth grinding, some medications, and genetics. Gingivitis is the beginning stage of gum disease, and, if detected, is treatable. Gingivitis left untreated may turn into gum disease. Advanced gum disease will lead to tooth and bone loss, and is a permanent condition. Brushing your teeth regularly and visiting the dentist every six months will help prevent gingivitis and more severe cases of periodontal disease. Common signs of gum disease:
- Red, irritated, bleeding, or swollen gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth, or loss of teeth
- Extreme tooth sensitivity
- Receding gum line
- Abscessed teeth
Meet Our Doctor:
Dr. Nathan Seyer
As a dentist, I enjoy helping people achieve a happy healthy smile. I strive to deliver the excellent care in all aspects of dentistry. I love going to continuing education courses and learning different, newer, or better ways of doing dentistry. I also love helping those who struggle to get access to care. I routinely help out with missions and clinics here in the US and beyond. I have gone on several mission trips to Haiti and Africa and have been able to help fight dental infections affecting the impoverished ...