A root canal is a treatment that removes the infected pulp of a tooth and replaces it with a filling. This can save your tooth from extraction, and it’s usually the best way to treat an infected tooth. At SoCal Prime Dentistry, our dentist begins this treatment by drilling a small hole in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. They will then remove the diseased tissue and clean the area thoroughly. Next, the dentist will fill the chamber with a biocompatible material and seal it to prevent further infection. Finally, they will place a crown or cap on the tooth to protect it from further damage.
After the process, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity for a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication can help ease any pain or swelling. Following all aftercare instructions your dentist provides is essential to ensure a successful recovery.
When Is a Root Canal Performed?
A root canal is a standard procedure dentists perform to save a tooth from extraction. Our dentist in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA may recommend this procedure if your tooth’s pulp is infected or decayed and no other treatment can repair it. The tooth's pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and other tissues. If the pulp becomes infected, it can cause severe pain and swelling. It can also result in an abscess. An untreated infection can lead to tooth loss. A root canal procedure can save your natural tooth from needing to be extracted.
The Advantages of Root Canal Treatment
Pain Relief
One of the primary benefits of a root canal is the relief of severe tooth pain. When the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma, it can cause excruciating pain and sensitivity. Root canal treatment eliminates the source of the pain by removing the infected tissue, providing immediate relief.
Infection Removal
Root canals are performed to treat infected teeth and prevent the spread of infection to other areas of the mouth or the body. The dentist removes bacteria by cleaning and disinfecting the tooth's inner chamber, reducing the risk of further complications and preserving the natural tooth structure.
Preservation of Natural Teeth
Root canal treatment aims to save the natural tooth rather than extracting it. Preserving the tooth is crucial for maintaining proper oral function and aesthetics and preventing adjacent teeth from shifting out of position. Keeping the natural tooth also avoids needing more extensive dental treatments, such as dental implants or bridges.
By addressing dental infections and preserving natural teeth, root canals contribute to a healthy and functional smile. If you have a severely damaged or infected tooth, contact SoCal Prime Dentistry at 22032 El Paseo Ste 230 , Rancho Santa Margarita, CA , 92688, or call (949) 713-1606.