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Root Canal Therapy
Root canals are tiny passageways that branch off from beneath the top of the tooth, coursing their way vertically downward, until they reach the tip of the root.
All teeth have between one and four root canals.
Many tooth problems involve infections that spread to the pulp, which is the inner chamber of the tooth containing blood vessels, nerves and other tissues. When the infection becomes worse, it can begin affecting the roots. A traumatic injury to a tooth can also compromise the pulp, leading to similar problems.
A diseased inner tooth brings a host of problems including pain and sensitivity as the first indications of a problem. However, inside a spreading infection can cause small pockets of pus to develop, which can lead to an abscess.
Root canal therapy is a remarkable treatment with a very high rate of success, and involves removing the diseased tissue, halting the spread of infection and restoring the healthy portion of the tooth. In fact, root canal therapy is designed to save a problem tooth; before the procedure was developed and gained acceptance, the only alternative for treating a diseased tooth was extraction.
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Procedure
Root canal therapy usually entails one to three visits. During the first visit, a small hole is drilled through the top of the tooth and into the inner chamber. Diseased tissue is removed, the inner chamber cleansed and disinfected, and the tiny canals reshaped. The cleansed chamber and canals are filled with an elastic material and medication designed to prevent infection. If necessary, the drilled hole is temporarily filled until a permanent seal is made with a crown.
Most patients who have root canal experience little or no discomfort or pain, and enjoy a restored tooth that can last almost as long as its healthy original.
Root Canal Therapy FAQs
Has your dentist recommended a root canal? We’re sure you’ve many questions regarding the procedure—is it painful? Is there an alternative? Here are answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about root canals.
What is a root canal?
It’s the procedure recommended when your tooth is severely decayed or damaged, and a crown or filling alone isn’t enough to restore the tooth. Also known as endodontic therapy, root canals remove the diseased pulp tissue containing the nerves and blood vessels. Finally, the dentist rebuilds your tooth with a filling or crown to restore its beauty and function.
Why can’t I take antibiotics?
Root canal infections are caused by bacteria, so antibiotics should work? You’re probably mistaken. When your tooth has an infection, the blood vessels that supply the antibacterial defenses are destroyed. This way, the antibiotics can’t reach the inside of the tooth. Antibiotics will only prevent the spread of the infection to the nearby tissues but will not cure an infected tooth. The only way to save an infected tooth is through root canal therapy.
How do I know I need a root canal?
An excruciating toothache is usually the tell-tale sign that your tooth is infected. The other symptoms include:
• Tooth Sensitivity
• A darkening tooth as the pulp dies
• A recurrent pimple-like swelling in the gums
Sometimes, infected teeth come with little to no symptoms. That’s why routine exams are essential, where the dentist can spot an infected tooth using dental X-rays.
What can I expect from root canal therapy?
The procedure starts with a consultation with the dentist to establish the extent of tooth damage and the health of the surrounding tissues. Usually, this involves dental X-rays and photos of your tooth. Next, the dentist anesthetizes your gums to ensure you are comfortable.
The other steps include:
• Isolating your tooth with a rubber dam to prevent saliva contamination
• Creating an opening at the top of the tooth
• Using this access hole to flush out the infected tissues
• Cleaning and sanitizing your tooth to remove all traces of bacteria
• Filling the empty chambers with gutta-percha
• Restoring your tooth with a filling or dental crown
How long does the procedure last?
Your dental procedure usually takes less than two hours, and you may need more than one appointment, depending on the severity of your infection and type of tooth restoration.
Is a root canal painful?
This is a commonly asked question about root canals, perhaps stemming from misconceptions peddled over the generations. If you had asked this question decades ago, the answer would be a resounding yes. However, with modern technology, root canals are virtually painless.
Before the procedure, we use modern anesthetics to numb your mouth to block pain signals. Furthermore, you can opt for sedation dentistry if you have dental anxiety. Thanks to modern dental technology and light touch techniques, root canals are no more painful than a tooth filling.
Why can’t I have the tooth removed?
Tooth extraction is the only alternative to a root canal. While it seems like the easier option, it should only be on the table if your tooth is beyond saving. Extracting your tooth leaves a gap that impedes your talking and chewing ability. Plus, mouth gaps affect the stability of other teeth, causing bite misalignments and health complications like TMJ pain.
When your tooth is extracted, you must replace the tooth to prevent the unpleasant symptoms above. Replacing your tooth with an option like an implant is a significant investment that costs way more than the root canal.
Want to learn more about root canals? Please call (517) 667-7066 to talk to Douglas Hoppe DDS of Eaton Rapids, Michigan.
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Douglas Hoppe, DDS
Dr. Douglas Hoppe is a highly skilled dentist with over 18 years of experience providing personalized dental care. A valedictorian from Swan Valley High School, he earned his Bachelor’s in Chemistry from Michigan State University before completing his dental training at the University of Michigan. Dr. Hoppe is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and Michigan Dental Association. Committed to ongoing education, he trained at the Pankey Institute and is actively involved in local dental study clubs and the Eaton Rapids Rotary Club. Dr. Hoppe is known for his compassionate approach, ensuring optimal oral health for his patients.
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