Root canal treatment may sound scary, but this form of advanced dental treatment is actually one of the most effective and commonly used ways to save an ailing tooth. When you get to know root canal therapy, what it entails, and why it is done, you will be much more comfortable if your dentist recommends the treatment. At the dental office of Christopher Nelis DDS, we perform root canals on a regular basis to help our patients retain their natural teeth. Here is a look at a few things you should know about root canal therapy.
What is a root canal?
Your natural teeth have root canals in them; in fact, your teeth can have as many as three or four, but most of them have only one or two. The number of canals depends on the size of the tooth. These narrow canals reach through the tooth into the root, and they have an important purpose to support the vitality of the tooth. Unfortunately, when a tooth has problems, like decay or infection, the problems can spread through the canal and affect the root. in some cases, a direct traumatic injury (such as a tooth getting knocked out of place) can cause similar problems.
How are root canals performed by the dentist?
During a root canal treatment for an affected tooth, the dentist will first use a local anesthetic to numb the area. Root canal therapy involves going in through the canal, eradicating any pulp and tissue that is affected, and then using restorative materials to fill the canal. Without root canal therapy, it is very possible for the affected tooth to either fall out or start to deteriorate at a really rapid pace. If an infection is discovered during the process, the dentist may place a temporary canal filler and prescribe antibiotics until it is safe to proceed with treatment. In a lot of ways from a patient’s perspective, a root canal treatment is similar to getting a regular filling if you have a cavity.
Common Reasons Patients Require Root Canal Therapy
Patients may require a root canal for a few reasons, such as:
- A tooth is deteriorating from the inside out due to decay
- A tooth has been knocked out of place and the root or canal is unhealthy
- A tooth has been infected and small pockets of pus have made their way into the root canal
Contact us About Root Canal Treatment in Holland, MI
At least 15 million root canals are done in the United States in a single year, and these procedures can give a tooth that would be lost new life. If you are interested in learning more or to make an appointment for a root canal in Holland, MI, reach out to us at the office of Dr. Christopher Nelis so we can help.