At The Dentist, patients in Newark, Ohio, can find relief from tooth pain and save their natural teeth through root canal therapy. This specialized procedure, part of the field of endodontics, involves removing infected or inflamed pulp from inside the tooth, thus preserving the tooth’s structure and preventing further damage or infection.
What Makes Root Canal Therapy Necessary?
Root canal therapy is often recommended when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. Symptoms may include severe pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling in the nearby gums. If left untreated, pulp infection can lead to abscess formation and even more serious health complications.
The Lifesaving Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
Root canal therapy offers numerous benefits:
- Saves Natural Teeth: The procedure allows patients to keep their natural teeth, maintaining their smile and chewing function.
- Alleviates Pain: It effectively relieves toothache and discomfort by removing the source of infection.
- Prevents Spread of Infection: By eradicating bacteria from the infected root canal, it prevents further spread of infection to other teeth.
- Limits the Need for More Extensive Dental Work: Saving a natural tooth avoids the need for more complex dental procedures in the future.
Your Journey Through Root Canal Therapy
The process typically involves one or more visits to The Dentist. Initially, Dr. Jeffrey Kirian, DDS will conduct a thorough examination to determine if root canal therapy is necessary. If so, he will numb the area around the affected tooth to ensure comfort during the procedure. A small opening is made in the crown of the tooth to access and remove the infected pulp. The inside of the tooth will then be carefully cleaned and disinfected before being filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Finally, a crown or filling is placed on top to restore full functionality.
Setting Your Expectations for Aftercare
Following root canal treatment, some sensitivity or discomfort may be experienced for a few days. However, this is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medications. It is important to follow any aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Kirian to ensure a smooth recovery and maintain oral hygiene practices to prevent future infections.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy
Is root canal therapy painful?
Modern techniques and anesthesia make root canal treatment virtually painless.
How long does it take to recover from root canal treatment?
Most patients return to their normal activities within a day or two.
Can root canal therapy fail?
While highly successful, there are rare cases where a retreatment or additional procedures may be necessary.
If you’re experiencing dental pain or have been advised that you might need root canal therapy, The Dentist in Newark, OH is here to help. Contact us at 740-366-1236 for more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Kirian.