Root Canal Treatment
In certain situations where the inner portion of a tooth has become damaged by infection or decay, root canal treatment might be the best possible method for saving the injured tooth. The process involves removing the harmful material present inside the tooth and replacing it with a special filling material that is designed to restore its function and structure.
A root canal infection occurs when bacteria spreads to the inner portions of a tooth or when the pulp of a tooth begins to experience decay. Certain symptoms might suggest that a patient is experiencing a root canal infection. These symptoms include:
- Intense toothache
- Sensitivity to temperature
- Tenderness and swelling of the gum
- Abscess on the gums
Our dental care specialists do everything possible to make sure that the patient is kept comfortable during root canal treatment. We start by numbing the area with a local anesthetic that is designed to greatly reduce pain. Using a rubber sheet, we keep the tooth dry, while also preventing the infection from spreading. Once the patient is ready, we access the inner portions of the tooth to remove any infected pulp and damaged nerve tissue that is present. Then we thoroughly clean out the tooth and carefully seal it with special filling material. The process is completed by placing a temporary crown over its surface to maintain its structure. A permanent crown will be applied during a follow-up visit.
If you or a family member wants to learn more about root canal treatment, please contact our office to set up a consultation with one of our dental health specialists. You may call us at (973) 556-7266 to schedule an appointment.