Get the Smile You Deserve with Executive Dentistry
Are you struggling with tooth pain or sensitivity that just won’t go away? It can be incredibly frustrating and even debilitating to deal with ongoing dental pain. At Executive Dentistry, Dearborn restorative dentist, Dr. Abraham understands how difficult it can be to live with tooth pain, which is why we offer a range of effective dental treatments, including root canal therapy. We can help you achieve a healthier, happier smile by providing the highest quality of care and compassionate support with root canal therapy.
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that is performed when the dental pulp inside of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. The dental pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain and can lead to an abscess if left untreated.
During a root canal procedure, the infected or inflamed pulp is removed from the tooth, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected. After the pulp is removed, the tooth is filled with a special material and sealed. A dental crown is typically placed on the tooth to protect it and restore its function.
Why Someone May Need A Root Canal
There are several reasons why someone may need a root canal. The most common reason is that the pulp inside the tooth has become infected or inflamed due to decay, trauma to the tooth, or a cracked or chipped tooth. Other reasons someone may need a root canal include:
- A deep cavity that has reached the pulp of the tooth
- Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
- A tooth that has undergone a significant amount of wear and tear
- A tooth that has been knocked loose or out of its socket
Additionally, if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may need a root canal:
- Severe tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Swelling and tenderness in the gums
- Discoloration of the tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums near the tooth
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Abraham, our trusted Dearborn dentist as soon as possible if any of the symptoms mentioned above apply to you.
The Root Canal Process
The root canal process typically takes two to three appointments to complete. During the first appointment, Dr. Abraham will examine the tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage to the tooth and the surrounding bone. He’ll also tell you about additional options you may have, address any concerns, and answer any questions. If you’re feeling nervous about the procedure, we can provide sedation dentistry options.
If you’ve been approved for a root canal, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the area. Next, your Dearborn dentist will make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected or inflamed pulp will be removed from the tooth using small, specialized tools. The inside of the tooth will then be cleaned and disinfected to remove any bacteria or debris.
Once the inside of the tooth is clean, your dentist will fill the tooth with a special material and seal it with a temporary filling. In some cases, a second appointment may be needed to complete the root canal procedure. During this appointment, a permanent filling or crown will be placed on the tooth to protect it and restore its function.
After the root canal procedure is complete, it’s important to follow Dr. Abraham’s instructions for caring for your tooth. This may include avoiding hard or crunchy foods for a few days, taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed, and practicing good oral hygiene habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people believe that root canals are painful, but the truth is that they are not. During the procedure, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel any pain. After the procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
The root canal process typically takes two to three appointments to complete. The length of each appointment depends on the extent of the damage to the tooth and the complexity of the procedure. Generally, each appointment lasts between one and two hours, although times may vary based on factors such as how many teeth require treatment.
Yes, you can eat after a root canal. However, it’s important to avoid hard or crunchy foods for a few days after the procedure to avoid damaging the tooth. You may also experience some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, so it’s a good idea to avoid very hot or very cold foods and beverages for a few days.
Like any dental procedure, some risks are associated with a root canal, although they are rare. These risks include infection, damage to surrounding teeth or tissue, and a weakened tooth. However, these risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced dentist and following all post-procedure instructions carefully.
Say Goodbye to Tooth Pain with Executive Dentistry
Don’t let tooth pain or sensitivity hold you back from enjoying your life to the fullest. If you’re experiencing any symptoms that could indicate the need for a root canal, such as severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or swelling around the affected tooth, it’s important to seek treatment right away.
Dr. Abraham is here to help. As a trusted and experienced dentist in Dearborn, MI, Dr. Abraham has the skills and expertise to save your teeth from extraction and improve the health of your smile. Call us today at (313) 914-4440 or schedule an appointment online and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile.