Endodontics is the clinical term assigned to dentistry of the tooth root and nerves. When a tooth gets infected the nerve is nearly always the cause. In cases like this, the nerve needs to be removed by a process more commonly known as a root canal. If the nerve is not removed, the infection will become and abscess which would lead to the jawbone, creating much more serious issue.
Despite its notoriety for pain and discomfort, root canal procedure have changed a great deal in the past several years, and have become much more routine. After numbing the area in around the tooth, your doctor will drill into the tooth in order to gain access to the canal. We will then remove any infected or damaged tissue, and fill the area with a product called gutta percha. We recommend that after undergoing a root canal, the patient opts to have a crown installed. This has cosmetic benefits as well as making the repaired tooth more durable.
Local anesthetics, better pain medication, and new techniques like Rotary Endodontics help to speed up recovery time, and decrease pain associated with root canal. While patients should expect to have soreness and some pain following the procedure, treatment with pain medication as directed by your physician is usually sufficient. Once healed, you will be able to enjoy normal activities and eating the foods you enjoy without pain or discomfort from hot or cold.
If you have pain and sensitivity in your tooth, call Broadway Dental for a consultation.
