“Root canal” is a term commonly used by people to refer to root canal treatment or endodontic procedures. All of these mean the same thing, which is the treatment and management of dental conditions affecting the core of the tooth which is also known as the pulp.
The pulp contains nerves, vessels, and some connective tissue. This area of the tooth is very important and can be hard to reach. At Edgartown Dental Group in Edgartown, MA, we have the knowledge and expertise to deal with your endodontic problems with efficiency.
To treat the root canal of a tooth, we make an opening at the top to remove the pulp. We’ll also remove all the dead and infected tissue, leaving only healthy parts of the tooth to allow healing. What happens next will depend on whether the procedure will be done over two visits or just one.
If the procedure is going to be completed in one visit, then we’ll fill the cavity we made. On the other hand, if the patient is coming back for a second visit, then we’ll put a temporary filling potentially with some antibiotics to keep the tooth clean. During the second visit, we’ll replace the temporary filling with a permanent one.
At Edgartown Dental Group, many patients ask us if the procedure will hurt. We always numb the area using local anesthesia to make sure you don’t feel any pain. You’ll be awake during the procedure, but that area of your mouth will be numb so you don’t feel any pain.
The diagnosis of root canal problems is important to guarantee that we’re treating the right thing. The most common symptom of root canal problems is pain, especially with hot and cold drinks and foods. People might also develop an abscess that is affecting a tooth.
If you’ve been exposed to trauma or had several dental procedures done to the same tooth, then you might need root canal treatment too. Those who have increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks or other forms of damage to their teeth should visit a dentist for urgent diagnosis and treatment.
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