Root Canal & Endodontics
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Root Canal & Endodontics
Root Canal & Endodontics in Northampton, MA
What Are Root Canals?
When Are Root Canals Needed?
Root canal treatment is needed when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to deep decay, a cracked or fractured tooth, repeated dental procedures, or trauma to the tooth. Symptoms of a damaged pulp can include pain, swelling, sensitivity to temperature, and discolouration of the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause further damage to the tooth and surrounding teeth and gums. At Gorgeous Smiles Dental in Northampton, MA, we provide root canal treatment to address these issues and restore the health of the affected tooth.
Some common symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include:
- Severe tooth pain, especially when biting or applying pressure
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the source of the temperature has been removed
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth
- Discolouration or darkening of the affected tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth, which may release pus or blood when pressed
How is a root canal performed by a dentist?
During a root canal procedure, a dentist or endodontist will numb the area around the affected tooth with a local anaesthetic. They will then open the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. The infected or inflamed pulp is carefully removed from the tooth using specialized tools.
The inside of the tooth is then thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate any bacteria and prevent further infection. The dentist may use an antimicrobial solution to rinse the canals and remove all debris and bacteria.
Once the canals are clean, they are filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha to seal them off and prevent further infection. The opening in the tooth is then sealed with a temporary filling, and the tooth may be covered with a crown or other restoration to protect it and restore its function.
The entire root canal procedure typically takes one or two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection and the complexity of the tooth’s anatomy. At Gorgeous Smiles Dental in Northampton, MA, our experienced endodontic specialists use the latest techniques and technology to ensure a comfortable and effective root canal treatment for our patients.
How Are Root Canals Completed?
Root canal treatment typically involves several steps and may take one or more appointments to complete.
First, the patient will be numbed with a local anaesthetic to ensure their comfort throughout the procedure. Then, the dentist will open the tooth to access the infected or inflamed pulp.
Using specialized tools, the dentist will carefully remove the damaged pulp and clean the inside of the tooth to remove any remaining bacteria or debris. The tooth is then filled with a biocompatible material to help support its structure.
In most cases, the dentist will recommend placing a crown or filling over the treated tooth to provide added protection and restore its natural function. This may require an additional appointment.
Overall, root canal treatment is a highly effective and safe procedure to save a damaged or infected tooth from extraction. At Gorgeous Smiles Dental in Northampton, MA, we use the latest techniques and technology to ensure our patients receive the best care during their root canal treatment.
How Much Do Root Canals Cost?
Types of Root Canals
There are three main types of root canals: anterior, premolar, and molar.
Anterior root canals are performed on the front teeth and typically have only one canal to treat.
Premolar root canals are performed on the teeth between the front and back teeth and usually have one or two canals to treat.
Molar root canals are performed on the back teeth and can have up to four canals to treat. Molar root canals are typically the most complex and time-consuming type.
At Gorgeous Smiles Dental in Northampton, MA, our experienced endodontic specialists can determine which type of root canal is necessary and provide the care you need to achieve optimal oral health.
Is Dental Root Canal Treatment Painful?
Dental root canal treatment is known for being painful, but with modern techniques and anaesthesia, the procedure is usually not painful. During the procedure, the dentist will administer a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring the patient is comfortable throughout the treatment. Sometimes, the patient may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Root canal treatment is typically performed to alleviate pain caused by an infected or inflamed tooth pulp so that the procedure can provide relief from discomfort. At Gorgeous Smiles Dental in Northampton, MA, our experienced endodontic specialists are dedicated to making the root canal process as comfortable and pain-free as possible for our patients.
Book a consultation today or make an appointment using our convenient online appointment scheduler.
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