Do you have a painful toothache because of an infected or inflamed tooth? Have you been advised to have a root canal performed to return your tooth to normal function? If so, you are not alone.
Root canal therapy is commonly employed to relieve tooth pain and save a tooth. If you are reluctant to have a root canal, take heart. Patients often react this way as they think having a root canal is painful. But the reality is, a root canal procedure is like having a dental filling done and you will be comfortable during the procedure. Our goal is to relieve your tooth pain while saving your tooth.
To better understand what root canal therapy entails, let’s take a brief look at what makes up a tooth. The part you normally see is the tough outer layer of tooth enamel. Tooth enamel covers the dentin below it which in turn protects the tooth pulp. The tooth pulp is made up of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue and is also the part of the tooth that benefits from root canal therapy if there is infection or inflammation. If you are scheduled for a root canal, you can expect the following:
— X-rays will be taken to determine where the infection is located.
— The tooth will receive a local numbing agent to make the experience comfortable.
— The infected pulp will be removed and the area thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
— A rubbery material called gutta-percha will be placed in the cleaned and disinfected area to fill and seal the tooth.
— A temporary filling material will be placed over the gutta-percha until a permanent filling or crown can be placed on the tooth. One the tooth is restored it will function normally again.
As you can see, there is no need to be nervous if a root canal procedure is on your horizon. Not only will we save your tooth, but it will be pain-free once again!
To find out more, or to schedule a visit with Dr. Ron Hernandez, please call 510-248-4847 today. Our experienced team in Fremont, California, looks forward to bringing back your beautiful smile!