Effective Painless Root Canal Theraphy in Potomac to Eliminate Infection and Save Tooth

Root Canal Treatment

The tooth consists of a very hard enamel layer on the top which serves to protect the soft root nerve and pulp on the inside. The nerve and pulp are located in the root canal and provide blood and nutrients to the tooth. It is possible for the nerve and pulp to develop tooth decay or infection in the root canal. When decay or infection is present, a root canal procedure may be necessary. During a root canal procedure, the root and pulp of the tooth are extracted and the rest of the hard outer portion of the tooth is left intact. Root canal procedures are performed at our Potomac dental office.

A root canal previously involved an extensive procedure that could be quite uncomfortable and require local or general anesthetic to numb the patient from feeling pain. Recent technology has enhanced the root canal procedure and will allow the patient to be more comfortable during both the root canal procedure and subsequent period of recuperation.

Extensive tooth decay can destroy the protective enamel and dentin of the tooth and allow exposure of the root and pulp to infection causing bacteria. Signs of infection include discomfort, swelling, and inflammation. A root canal procedure removes the infected portion of the pulp from the root canal.

Signs that a patient may require a root canal procedure include:

-Tooth sensitivity

-Discomfort while chewing

-Tooth discoloration

-Swelling around the tooth

The dentist examines the tooth and surrounding tissue for signs of decay and infection during a professional exam and may also take an x-ray to diagnose problems in the root canal. During a root canal procedure, the dentist numbs the area of the mouth and gums surrounding the affected tooth with a local anesthetic. A special dental drill is used to drill a small hole and allow the dentist to access the infected area. The infected tissue is then extracted and the root canal filled.

The patient may feel some pain during the first few days of recovery after the root canal procedure is performed. A pain relieving medication may be prescribed by the dentist or an over-the-counter pain reliever may be used to manage the patient’s pain level. After a root canal procedure, the remaining natural tooth may be more susceptible to damage such as breaking and cracking. A dentist will typically place a dental crown on the tooth to protect it. The dental crown is often referred to as a “cap” and looks just like a natural tooth.Symptoms such as tooth sensitivity, discomfort and swelling are all possible signs of tooth decay and may require a root canal procedure to treat. Dentists at our Potomac dental office are available to answer any questions and provide you with expert care.

Stages of Root Canal Theraphy

Healthy Tooth

This is how a healthy tooth would appear in your mouth

Root Canal Candidate

This tooth has massive tooth decay on the surface down into the pulp of the tooth. The pulp has become infected and the nerves in your tooth and possibly in your jaw will ache with pain. It is possible to have an infected tooth yet feel no pain. Due to the opening in the tooth the infection has a way of draining and may not hurt. Symptoms at this stage are: Bad Breath, Hot and/or Cold Sensation, Sweet Sensation or pain when using the tooth.

Cleaning Out The Tooth

At your visit your dentist will remove the Tooth Decay along with the roots within the tooth. Anesthesia will be used during this part of the procedure to make sure you are comfortable.

Filling and Seal

Then a filling is placed where the roots once were in your tooth. A seal is placed on top of the filling material.

Replace Top area of Tooth

Then the top area of the tooth is replaced with a Crown. The Root Canal and Crown can last a lifetime if properly cared for.

If you have further questions on whether you might need a Root Canal, please contact our office for an appointment 301-760-4550

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Your Dentist 7508 Wisconsin ave. Bethesda MD 20814 tel: 301-760-4550