Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment can save an infected tooth from otherwise certain extraction—it’s a proven procedure that will leave your mouth healthy and strong while restoring its natural appearance.
Quit Suffering So You Can Smile Again
The last thing we want is to see a patient in pain. If your teeth are hurting you, that means something is wrong. The sooner you get treated, the faster you can feel normal again. Root canal procedures are an essential part of our restorative dentistry. During this process, we:
- Remove decay from your tooth
- Remove infected tissue from inside your tooth
- Refill your tooth with a special substance
- Cap your tooth with a filling and/or dental crown
By providing root canals in Lincoln, NE, we can save your tooth and prevent infection from spreading to other parts of your mouth. A root canal treatment could be the key to protecting your smile.
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What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth when the nerves inside become inflamed or infected. To alleviate the pain and preserve the tooth, the dentist removes the infected tissue and thoroughly cleans the area. Common signs of an infection that may require a root canal include:
- Persistent, intense tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks
- Swollen and tender lymph nodes
- Recurrent abscesses on the gums
After the root canal treatment, a crown is usually placed on the tooth to protect it from future damage.
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How is root canal treatment performed?
Root canal treatment begins with digital X-rays to assess the extent of the damage. The dentist will then carefully access the tooth’s inner structure and remove the infected material, leaving the tooth hollow. The area is then flushed with an antimicrobial liquid. Next, the tooth is filled with a medicated substance to provide support and strength for healing. Finally, a dental crown is placed over the tooth to protect it from fractures and breakage.
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How long does the pain from a root canal last?
There is a common misconception that root canals are very painful. The procedure itself isn’t usually any more painful than a tooth filling. Dentists typically provide an anesthetic before the procedure, so there isn’t much discomfort during and a short while after.
Some sensitivity and discomfort are common while the area around the root canal heals. Gums can become swollen or agitated during the procedure, which results in mild pain. This pain should subside when the tooth is healed. After your treatment, your dentist will provide special instructions on caring for your newly treated tooth.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about root canal treatment, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.
