Root canal therapy, often simply referred to as a "root canal," is a specialized dental treatment designed to save and restore a tooth that's severely decayed or infected. The process involves removing the damaged area of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, then filling and sealing it. At Pearl Dental Hub, Dr. Pia Briones uses the latest technology and techniques to ensure the procedure is as comfortable and effective as possible. Root canal therapy is a common procedure, and despite its daunting reputation, it's typically no more painful than getting a filling.
Why Should I Get Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is essential if you have a tooth that's severely damaged or infected. Without proper treatment, the infection can spread, leading to more serious health complications like abscesses, bone loss around the root of the tooth, and even sepsis. Root canal therapy not only stops the spread of infection, but it also preserves the natural tooth, helping to maintain the integrity of your smile and the functionality of your bite. Dr. Pia Briones at Pearl Dental Hub is highly experienced in performing root canal therapy and prioritizes patient comfort and satisfaction.
Did you know…
A tooth that has had root canal therapy can last a lifetime with proper care!
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The Benefits Of Root Canal Therapy
Pain Relief
One of the most immediate benefits of root canal therapy is pain relief. An infected tooth can cause intense discomfort, and the therapy effectively treats the source of the pain. Despite common misconceptions, the procedure itself is not painful, as Dr. Briones uses local anesthesia to numb the area completely.
Prevents Spread of Infection
Root canal therapy is crucial in preventing the spread of infection. If left untreated, the bacteria causing the infection can spread to other teeth and even into the bloodstream. By removing the infected pulp, the spread of bacteria is halted.
Preserves Natural Tooth
Root canal therapy allows for the preservation of the natural tooth, which is always the best option if possible. Keeping your natural tooth helps maintain the natural alignment and functionality of your teeth, and prevents the need for more extensive dental work in the future.
The Root Canal Therapy Treatment Process
Examination and X-ray
The first step in the root canal therapy process is a thorough examination of the tooth and surrounding area. Dr. Briones will take an x-ray to get a detailed view of the tooth and assess the extent of the damage or infection.
Anesthesia and Pulp Removal
Once the extent of the damage is understood, the area is numbed using local anesthesia. Dr. Briones then makes an opening in the crown of the tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected or damaged pulp is carefully removed, and the area is cleaned.
Filling and Sealing
After the pulp has been removed and the area cleaned, the next step is to fill the canal with a biocompatible material and seal it. This prevents bacteria from entering and causing further infection. The tooth is then restored with a crown or filling for protection.