For more information about endodontic (root canal) therapy, contact our Philadelphia dental practice today.
The most common cause of painful toothaches is a deep cavity or a crack in a tooth that results in the exposure of the dental pulp to infection, where serious problems can arise. Dental pulp, the soft tissue at the center of the tooth containing blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues, will die if it becomes infected and cannot heal itself. If left untreated, this infection will trigger swelling and pain, as well as damage to the tooth, jawbone, and surrounding tissues. Severe toothaches are always cause for serious concern and should be looked at by a dentist as soon as possible. Endodontic therapy, commonly known as a root canal, is performed at our Philadelphia practice to painlessly and easily remove the dead or diseased pulp and save the tooth.
Prior to endodontic therapy, the patient is given a local anesthetic to banish pain, and the damaged tooth is isolated to protect it from saliva. The process begins with the opening of an access canal through the crown of the tooth. This allows the dentist to remove the infected pulp and clean the chamber. Then, the root canal must be shaped so that a filling can be placed, usually at a subsequent visit. The patient is fitted with a temporary filling to protect the opening, and medication may be given if the infection has spread beyond the tooth itself.
If a second visit is required, the temporary filling is replaced with a permanent one at this time. Finally, a dental crown is affixed, which helps to protect the root canal, and the endodontic therapy is complete. Our Philadelphia patients who undergo this procedure are able to free themselves of the pain of a pulp infection while safeguarding their natural teeth.
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Taking care of a tooth that has undergone endodontic therapy is as simple as practicing good dental care at home and returning to the dentist for regular dental exams. The restored tooth should last a lifetime, as long as the tissues surrounding it remain healthy and continue to nourish the roots of the tooth.
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Once the dental pulp has become infected, a root canal procedure is often the only option for preserving the tooth. To prevent such a condition, avoid tooth decay by brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly. Make a dental appointment immediately if you notice a sharp pain that occurs when you bite down and then quickly disappears, or if your teeth become very sensitive to heat or cold. These are potential signs of a cracked tooth.
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If you are experiencing tooth pain, or would simply like to learn more about how endodontic (root canal) therapy is performed, contact our Philadelphia practice today. We will be happy to answer all of your questions or to schedule an appointment for you with Dr. Barry Dubin.