Cary Root Canals

Root Canal Treatment in Cary, NC

Root Canal Therapy is commonly perceived as a painful procedure, causing anxiety for many patients. Dentists typically recommend this treatment when a tooth infection reaches the pulp, the tooth’s innermost layer, resulting in significant discomfort. To address the issue and save the tooth, root canal therapy is performed on the affected area.

Also referred to as Endodontic Therapy, this procedure is usually carried out by an Endodontist. Its purpose is to remove the infection from the pulp and prevent the need for tooth extraction.

Signs That Root Canal Therapy Is Needed

There are numerous indications for root canal therapy, including:

1. Intense toothache, often exacerbated by eating or biting, causing extreme pain.
2. Sensitivity to hot or cold beverages.
3. Swollen gums, particularly near the area of pain.

The Procedure

Endodontic Therapy is a complex procedure, necessitating a comprehensive examination and evaluation. The process involves the following steps:

1. The dentist will first request a dental x-ray to assess the extent of tooth damage.
2. After examining and identifying the decay, local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected tooth. A dental dam is then placed to keep the area dry and clean throughout the procedure.
3. A small drill is used to create an opening in the tooth, allowing the dentist to remove previous filling materials, decay, and infection.
4. The tooth’s chambers are shaped and irrigated to eliminate the infected pulp. An antimicrobial solution may be applied to ensure the area is bacteria-free and to prevent future infections.
5. Once the area is clean and dry, the dentist fills it with gutta-percha, a rubber-like substance, and seals it temporarily.
6. To complete the treatment, the patient must return to the dental clinic for the placement of a permanent crown, which fully restores the tooth.

Post-Procedure Care After the Procedure

It is essential to follow certain guidelines to prevent damage or infection in the treated area:

1. Avoid biting or chewing on the treated area for a few weeks, especially if the crown has not been placed.
2. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth after every meal and flossing at least once daily.
3. Refrain from chewing or biting hard foods to prevent tooth breakage or damage.
4. Regularly visit the dentist for check-ups to maintain healthy and clean teeth.

Points to Remember Root canal therapy is often mistakenly considered painful, but the actual source of pain is the infection. The healing process may take several days, as the treated area might be sore and painful due to the procedure. Completing the treatment may require 1-3 dental visits, depending on the extent of the tooth’s damage.

South Cary Dental in Cary, NC, is committed to providing top-notch dental care and ensuring your comfort throughout every step of your treatment.

Don’t let dental issues compromise your overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with South Cary Dental today and experience the difference in our patient-centered approach.