Root Canal Treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a practice used to save a tooth when the nerve or the dental pulp (a collection of nerves, blood vessels and other tissue inside a tooth) becomes diseased or injured.

Signs and symptoms that could be caused by a root canal concern include...

• Constant, severe pain in your mouth
• Swelling along the gum line
• Sharp pain when biting down on food
• Extreme sensitivity to heat or cold that lingers after eating

If you need a root canal, don’t panic! A root canal is one of the most commonly performed dental procedures and will help you feel better. You can expect the following...

X-rays and Procedure: The first step in a root canal treatment is to take an X-ray of the tooth to visualize whether there is an infection or damage to the root canal of the tooth. Local anesthetic is used to numb the area of the tooth. Once, the area is numb, a small hole will be drilled into the tooth to allow access to the dental pulp chamber and root canal. The infected or dead pulp is then removed from the tooth. Finally, adhesive cement is applied to seal the opening.

Tenderness: There may be some tenderness and sensitivity after the root canal procedure. The discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, however, your dentist will determine your treatment plan based on your individual assessment.

Possible Crown: Due to the structural weakening of the tooth from the trauma of a root canal procedure, it is usually necessary to add a crown over the affected tooth to prevent further damage and to restore function.

Need an assessment? Contact Martin Dental today to schedule a dental appointment in Altoona, WI.