A root canal is one of the most effective ways to save a tooth in danger of needing an extraction. At Denta Smiles in Coral Springs, Florida, Nicole Freytes, DMD, Juan Carlos Mendoza, DMD, MS, and the team provide expert care to ensure a comfortable and successful procedure. They help you preserve your natural teeth and maintain your oral health. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to receive comprehensive care for your root canal.
A root canal is an endodontic procedure that cleans infected tissue from inside a tooth's root canal. It also removes the pulp and seals the tooth to prevent further infection. Pulp is a soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. Once your tooth fully develops, it no longer relies on pulp.
Infected pulp can cause severe pain and swelling and lead to abscesses or damage to the surrounding bone. By removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth, a root canal relieves these symptoms, restores function, and saves the tooth from extraction.
You may not realize you need a root canal until you visit Denta Smiles for your routine dental exam. That’s why it’s essential to schedule a teeth cleaning once every six months. However, you may notice other warning signs of decay or infection that need a root canal, including:
An abscess — a pimple-like bump filled with pus — can also form near the affected tooth.
Addressing a dental abscess preserves your tooth function and prevents the need for an extraction.
During a root canal, the dental team carefully administers a local anesthetic to numb the affected tooth and surrounding area, keeping you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Next, they create a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals.
Once inside, the team removes the infected or damaged pulp tissue, which eliminates bacteria and decay.
Then, they clean and shape the root canals using specialized instruments to remove any remaining debris and smooth the surface.
After cleaning, the team fills the canals with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha, which seals the space and prevents future infections.
Finally, they seal the opening with a temporary or permanent filling. Sometimes, the team places a crown on the tooth to restore its strength and function.
Preventing reinfection after a root canal is essential. The team provides detailed aftercare tips to seal out new bacteria and preserve your smile.
If you need a root canal, call Denta Smiles or schedule an appointment online today.