A root canal is a standard dental procedure whereby a tooth’s damaged and infected portions are removed and the tooth is sealed using a material called gutta-percha. This procedure is highly successful, and most teeth treated with a root canal can last a lifetime with proper care.
For the first few days after treatment, your mouth may feel sensitive because of the inflammation of the tissues in the area. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help keep the area clean and prevent infection. Our dentist at David Kirkpatrick DDS routinely performs root canals and will be happy to answer any questions about what to expect during the recovery period and how to keep your teeth and gums healthy after your root canal procedure.
Why Is a Root Canal Performed?
A root canal procedure is performed to remove infected tissue from the roots of a tooth. This is necessary when the pulp inside the tooth becomes inflamed and infected, causing pain and possibly swelling in the gums around the affected area. You may also experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures in this mouth area. The purpose of the treatment is to remove the unhealthy tissue from the tooth to save and protect it from further damage. The dentist will then clean and seal the tooth to prevent future infection.
The Root Canal Procedure
The dentist will first numb the area with a local anesthetic before a root canal. Then, they will create a small opening on the top of the tooth and clean the decayed areas from within. The inside of the tooth will be cleared out, and the canals will be shaped to restore structure to the tooth. An inert material called gutta-percha is used to fill the tooth cavity before it’s sealed up. After the procedure is completed, patients can expect some pain or discomfort for a day or two. Additionally, the tooth may remain sensitive for a while as inflammation in the gums subsides.
The Benefits of a Root Canal Procedure
A root canal treatment can save your natural tooth and protect your oral health by treating the infection in the pulp. We use advanced techniques and modern tools for this procedure, making it safe and effective. The treatment removes the damaged tissues from the canal of your tooth and replaces them with sealant material to protect your tooth from future damage. This prevents the infection from spreading to other areas of your mouth and prevents the need for extraction or replacement in the future.
Get in touch with our team at David Kirkpatrick DDS by calling (513) 868-3600 or visiting us at 870 NW Washington Blvd Suite A, Hamilton, OH 45013, for the best dental care.
