At Meridian Dental, we understand that the thought of a root canal can be daunting, but rest assured, it's a common and highly effective procedure for saving a tooth that is infected or severely damaged. Here's what you need to know:

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure performed to remove infected or damaged tissue from inside the tooth, known as the pulp. The pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, and when it becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain and lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

When Is a Root Canal Needed?

A root canal may be necessary if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Tooth Pain: Persistent or severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure.
• Tooth Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the stimulus is removed.
• Swelling or Abscess: Swelling, tenderness, or a pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth, which may indicate an infection.
• Tooth Discoloration: Darkening or discoloration of the tooth, which may indicate damage to the pulp.

The Root Canal Procedure

During a root canal procedure, our skilled dentist will:

• Anesthetize the Tooth: To ensure your comfort, we'll numb the affected tooth and surrounding area with local anesthesia.
• Access the Pulp Chamber: We'll create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected or damaged pulp.
• Remove Infected Tissue: Using specialized instruments, we'll carefully remove the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from the pulp chamber and root canals.
• Disinfect and Seal the Canals: The canals will be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and filled with a biocompatible material to prevent re-infection.
• Restore the Tooth: After the root canal, we may recommend placing a crown or filling to strengthen and protect the tooth, restoring its function and appearance.

Root canal treatment is highly successful and can save your natural tooth from extraction. If you're experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms of infection, don't delay seeking treatment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our caring team is here to help you achieve optimal oral health and relieve your discomfort.

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