According to the American Association of Endodontists, over 25 million root canals are performed every year in the United States, reflecting the importance and prevalence of this dental procedure.
At Power Road Dental Care, our priority is your comfort and health. We understand that the mere thought of a root canal might make you nervous, but rest assured, our team, led by Dr. Tyler N. Davis, is well-equipped and dedicated to providing the most comfortable and efficient care possible.
If you are searching for a dentist who specializes in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, we can help. To book an appointment, call (480) 664-1438 or complete the online booking form. If you are searching for ‘root canal therapy near me’, trust the experts at Power Road Dental Care.
Book an AppointmentWhat Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is necessary when bacteria has infected the pulp (soft inner tissue) of your tooth. The pulp chamber is the space inside your tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and other tissues. If this infection isn’t treated with a root canal, pain and discomfort can spread to the surrounding tissue.
When the pulp becomes infected, it can cause a great deal of pain. To stop the pain and save your tooth, a root canal is performed to remove the infected pulp and replace it with a material called gutta percha that prevents bacteria from entering the area again.
A root canal preserves the root of the tooth, allowing you to maintain your normal eating and chewing habits. Without a root canal, the infected tooth might need to be extracted altogether, which can lead to other oral health issues.
When Is a Root Canal Necessary?
Root canals are typically performed when a tooth has become so infected that it cannot be treated with other therapies. This is usually due to deep decay or trauma that affects the nerves and pulp of the tooth.
If left untreated, the infection can spread to neighboring teeth or even your jawbone, causing further damage and pain. In severe cases, the infection can spread to your bloodstream and can cause systemic problems beyond the mouth.
A root canal may be necessary if you have noticed one of the following:
- Severe pain when biting or chewing
- What looks like a pimple on the gums
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen or tender gums
- Deep decay or darkening of the gums
The Benefits of a Root Canal
Having a root canal is often the best way to preserve your natural tooth structure and prevent further damage. A few of the key benefits include:
- Prevent infection from spreading to other teeth or bones
- Relief of severe tooth pain
- Long-term protection against future infection
- No need for ongoing dental treatments on the same tooth
- Improved oral health and hygiene
- A natural look to your smile
- Preserve the tooth
The Root Canal Procedure
During a root canal procedure at Power Road Dental Care, you can expect the following steps:
- Local anesthesia: Dr. Tyler N. Davis will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the infected tooth. This ensures the procedure is as comfortable as possible. If you require additional sedation to help you relax, we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedation.
- Accessing the tooth: Next, a small hole is made through the biting surface of the tooth to reach the infected pulp.
- Pulp removal: The infected pulp, which is causing pain and discomfort, is removed.
- Cleaning: The root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and prepared for filling.
- Filling and sealing: The root canal is filled with a material called gutta percha. This material prevents bacteria from entering the tooth canal, protecting against future infection.
- Temporary restoration: Finally, a temporary crown or filling is placed over the tooth to protect it until the final restoration is ready.
- Final restoration: You will return to the office for a second appointment when your restoration is ready. Your crown or other restoration will be placed at this appointment. Whether you need a restoration is dependent on each individual case, Dr. Davis will discuss this with you at your initial appointment.
Recovery and After Care
It is important to follow up in short order and get a final restoration, so the tooth doesn’t break. This will restore the tooth to proper function.
If you have a temporary restoration, we recommend that you avoid sticky and hard foods until you receive your permanent restoration.
It is important that you maintain good oral hygiene habits to prevent future infections. Good oral hygiene habits include:
- Brush twice a day
- Floss daily
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash
- Regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Drink plenty of water
Risks of a Root Canal Procedure
Root canal therapy is considered to be one of the most successful dental procedures. However, there are some risks associated with root canals that you should be aware of:
- Infection: Though rare, infection can occur if the tooth is not completely sealed or the bacteria managed to spread into other areas of the mouth.
- Nerve damage: In some cases, there may be damage to a nerve during the procedure. This is usually a temporary issue that resolves within several days or weeks.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may have an allergic reaction to the materials used during the root canal procedure.
As with any dental procedure, pain and swelling may occur but are generally mild and can be managed with over-the-counter medications. If you experience severe pain or swelling, contact us immediately.
Root Canal in Mesa
Root canals are a safe and effective way to save a damaged or infected tooth from extraction. At Power Road Dental Care, Dr. Tyler N. Davis and his staff will ensure that you have the best outcome possible.
We use advanced technology and techniques to ensure the safety of each patient, while providing a comfortable and relaxing environment for all our patients. We understand the importance of having a healthy smile, which is why we make sure to provide quality root canal treatment services.
If you are searching for a dentist who specializes in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, we can help. To book an appointment, call (480) 664-1438 or complete the online booking form. If you are searching for ‘root canal therapy near me’, trust the experts at Power Road Dental Care.
Summary
- Root canals are performed when a tooth infection cannot be treated with other therapies due to deep decay or trauma.
- Benefits of root canal procedure include preventing the spread of infection, relief of tooth pain, long-term protection against future infection, improved oral health, and a natural looking smile.
- The root canal procedure involves administering a local anesthetic, accessing the tooth, removing the infected pulp, cleaning, filling and sealing, putting a temporary restoration, and finally the placement of a permanent restoration.
- Post procedure, good oral hygiene habits are essential to prevent future infections.
- Risks of a root canal procedure, although rare, include infection, nerve damage, allergic reactions, and minor pain and swelling.
- At Power Road Dental Care, Dr. Tyler N. Davis uses advanced technology and techniques to provide safe, effective, and quality root canal treatment services.
- To book an appointment, call (480) 664-1438 or complete the online booking form.
FAQs About Root Canals
How Long Does a Root Canal Procedure Take?
The length of the procedure varies depending on the extent of the infection and whether a crown or restoration is necessary. Generally, however, root canal procedures can take anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour to complete.
Why Do Root Canals Take Two Visits?
A root canal often requires two visits because a permanent restoration (crown or filling) is usually required to protect the tooth from further damage. This allows time for the root canal to heal before placing the final restoration.
Will I Need Sedation for My Root Canal?
No, sedation is not necessary during a routine root canal procedure. However, if you feel anxious or uncomfortable about the procedure, let Dr. Davis know, and he will discuss sedation options with you.
Do Root Canals Hurt?
The short answer is no. During the procedure, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic and you should not feel any pain. After the procedure, there may be some minor soreness or sensitivity, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications.
What Happens if I Don’t Get a Root Canal?
If the infected pulp is not removed, it will eventually lead to an abscess and the infection will spread into other areas of the mouth. An untreated infection can lead to serious, life-threatening complications.
If you are searching for a dentist near me, contact the experts at Power Road Dental Care.