Root Canal
-
- Tweet
Gregory Family Dental
Cosmetic & Family Dentist located in Kansas City, MO
Constant pain and discomfort in a tooth may be a symptom of serious damage, but timely root canal treatment can stop further damage and save the tooth. Don’t delay in consulting Emile McLaurian, DDS, and the expert team of professionals at Gregory Family Dental in Kansas City, Missouri. Dr. McLaurian uses the latest methods of root canal therapy to make this standard procedure a comfortable experience for you. To alleviate pain and learn more about root canal therapy, call or book an appointment by going online today.
Root Canal Q & A
What is a root canal?
A root canal or endodontic treatment is a dental therapy used to repair and save a severely damaged or infected tooth. It involves the removal of the damaged tissue from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the remaining part, followed by filling and sealing it. Root canal therapy saves millions of teeth each year.
How do I know I need a root canal?
The root inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes necessitating root canal treatment:
- Deep tooth decay
- Repeated dental procedures
- Crack or chip in the tooth
- Infection and pus pocket at the bottom of the root
- Pulp infection
A timely root canal treatment can take care of all these causes and save the tooth.
What are the signs I may need a root canal?
Severe tooth pain is the most common symptom indicating that you may need a root canal treatment. Other signs include:
- Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
- Tenderness to touch and chewing
- Tenderness of jaw bone and gums
Sometimes there may be no symptoms, and tooth damage is diagnosed during a dental examination.
What should I expect during a root canal procedure?
Dr. McLaurian performs a comprehensive oral examination that includes lab tests and imaging procedures to know more about the condition of your damaged tooth.
Once he confirms that you need a root canal treatment, Dr. McLaurian begins by numbing the area with a local anesthetic to ensure your highest level of comfort. He then isolates the tooth from the surrounding area by a protective sheath to keep it dry and free of saliva.
Next, Dr. McLaurian drills a tiny hole in the diseased tooth to drain the infected tissue, cleaning and preparing the space for filling. He then fills the canal with a rubber-like biocompatible material called gutta-percha before sealing the opening with a temporary filling.
At the follow-up visit, Dr. McLaurian finishes the treatment by placing a crown or another dental restoration on the treated tooth to protect and restore it to full function.
If you have tooth pain and suspect that you might need a root canal procedure, do not delay further. Call Gregory Family Dental or book an appointment online.