Hello Arizona, let’s talk about the root canal procedure (“endodontic therapy” in dentist – speak). The root canal may be the most cringe-worthy dental treatment commonly done today, but it is important that dental patients in the Somerton and Fortuna Foothills areas know what is happening during this anxiety – inducing, though routine, procedure.
At the center of each tooth is a very small tissue called the pulp. This thread-like tissue can become damaged due to a:
An injury to a tooth
A very deep cavity
A crack in the tooth
If this tissue becomes damaged or infected, it can build up at the root tip inside the jawbone and form an abscess. If left untreated, this can actually destroy the bone around the tooth and cause serious discomfort.
When an endodontist, oral surgeon, or general dentist in Winterhaven, CA, or San Luis, AZ, performs a root canal, the dead or diseased pulp is taken out, the space that is left is cleaned and then it is shaped and filled. This eliminates the need for a diseased tooth to be pulled and continued cosmetic dentistry to fill in the gap.
Hi. I’m Dr. Mann of The Yuma Dentist in Yuma. I hope that today’s dental blog post has helped you to better understand root canals. I want my patients to have the best oral health possible and accurate dental information. I also want them to look their best, so if you have any questions about a smile makeover, dental implants, or teeth whitening, please give us a call at 928-318-6346.