THE WONDERFUL TRUTH ABOUT ROOT CANALS
Though tooth-colored fillings are a popular treatment for most mild to moderate cavities, a tooth may sometimes be too thoroughly infected or damaged for a filling to successfully restore it. For more serious cases of tooth infection, root canal therapy may be the preferable (if not only) option for saving the healthy tooth structure that remains.
Cleaning a Tooth’s Root Canals
As tooth decay spreads, the bacteria that cause it penetrate deeper into your tooth, eventually reaching the nerves and blood vessels located at its center (called the pulp). Root canal treatment describes removing the diseases pulp and the infected tissues within the pulp chamber, as well as the connected root canals that extend underneath your gums.
- After your tooth is anesthetized, and you have undergone dental sedation (if necessary), we will place a dental dam to isolate the tooth.
- To begin the procedure, we will gently create a small hole in the tooth, through which the infected pulp tissues can be removed and the interior of the tooth cleaned and sanitized.
- Once cleaned, the tooth’s root canals will be sealed with a biocompatible material known as gutta percha. The material strengthens the root canals in addition to sealing them to prevent the spread of infection.
- After the root canals and the interior of the tooth are filled, Dr. Cornelius will recommend placing a dental crown over the tooth to improve its strength and appearance. In most cases, it is imperative that you have a crown placed after root canal treatment to reduce the risks of further dental damage and potential tooth loss.
Root Canal with post/Build Up
Do You Need Root Canal Treatment?
If your tooth is in severe discomfort, or if a previously placed filling has failed, then you may need root canal treatment to save your tooth. To find out, schedule an appointment by calling Dr. Cornelius’ office in Keller, TX, at 817-431-4200. We proudly the serve the residents of Keller, Roanoke, Trophy Club, Westlake, Southlake, North Richland Hills, and all surrounding communities.