Just because a tooth is decaying or impacted by an infection, it doesn’t mean that you have to get it extracted. Dentists rely on root canal therapy to save such teeth. The process involves accessing the root canal and getting rid of the pulp, nerves, and bacteria, following which the space is filled with medicated materials and sealed. You can check and book an appointment with top clinics like Smile Shapers Sterling Heights, MI to know more. For your help, here is an overview of root canal therapy, also called root canal treatment.
Signs that you need RCT
There are some telltale signs that a tooth is infected and could be potentially saved by performing a root canal treatment. An abscess on the gums and sensitivity to hot and cold foods are two common signs. If the pulp is exposed, one may experience excessive pain in the tooth with swelling and tenderness in the gums. Sometimes a dentist could detect a cavity or initial infection during a regular checkup and recommend root canal therapy for the infected tooth. If the infection has reached the pulp, root canal treatment is usually the only alternative to extraction.
The procedure
Typically, a standard root canal procedure requires two to three sessions. If there is evident pain, your dentist or endodontist may use local anesthesia before starting the procedure. The first step is to create an access opening, following which root canal files are placed in the opening. This helps remove the pulp, nerve tissues, and bacteria from the infected tooth. If there is decay, your dentist will remove the same using special instruments. Once the tooth is cleaned, it is then sealed with special fillings. For the first couple of sessions, a temporary filling is used. After the final session, your dentist will take measurements and order a crown, which will work as a cap on the tooth and adds to its functionality.
Extraction vs. root canal
It is a common myth that extraction is better than root canal therapy. Extraction can impact adjacent teeth, and if you have more than a couple of teeth that are infected, extraction could cause serious problems. People often have an inherent fear of root canal therapy, often because of the files and tools used, but with a good dentist doing their job, you don’t have much to worry about.
Check online now and find more on top-rated clinics for a root canal in Sterling Heights.
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