Although a root canal is often a dreaded procedure, it’s not what causes your pain; instead, it alleviates the pain of an infected tooth root in order to help save the tooth’s structure. At A&M Dental Arts in Manalapan, New Jersey, Manisha Singh, DMD, and the team can diagnose a tooth that needs a root canal and perform the procedure, so you feel better. To find out if a root canal can benefit your oral health, call the office or schedule an appointment online.
A root canal procedure removes the infected pulp of a tooth and replaces it with a biocompatible material. This saves the structure of the tooth, so you still have optimal function and appearance of the tooth.
The pulp necessary for a tooth’s growth and development and contains blood vessels and nerves. But after the tooth is mature, this pulp isn’t necessary for its integrity.
Sometimes you’ll have no symptoms, and the infection at the pulp is only evident on an X-ray performed at your regular checkup. Symptoms that you have an infected tooth that needs a root canal include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact A&M Dental Arts to find out if a root canal could help relieve your pain.
During a root canal, Dr. Singh numbs the area around the affected tooth. She makes a mall hole in the tooth and scrapes out all signs of infection.
Dr. Singh then places a solution inside to kill bacteria and adds gutta-percha, a rubbery material, to fill in the area where the pulp was. Finally, she seals the site, and your root canal is complete.
A root canal is usually fitted with a crown, or cap, to protect the vulnerable site. A crown is usually made from porcelain and matches the look of your other teeth.
A root canal is performed under local anesthesia, so you feel very little during the procedure. A&M Dental Arts also provides nitrous oxide for patients with anxiety or for those who request to have a calm and soothing experience.
You may feel a little sensitive and sore for a few days afterward. However, over-the-counter pain medications can help relieve the immediate discomfort. If your pain lasts longer than a few days, contact the team at A&M Dental Arts.
For more information about root canals and to find out if you might need one, call A&M Dental Arts or book an appointment online.
