Root Canal Therapy in Anchorage and Wasilla, AK
What is a Root Canal?
When your tooth is badly decayed and is causing you pain and discomfort, a root canal treatment can completely alleviate your pain and save your tooth. If you choose to get a root canal, your dentist will remove the pulp of the tooth. The pulp contains the blood vessels, nerves, and tissues that are causing you pain. Your tooth will still function properly without the pulp.
Do I Need a Root Canal?
A root canal is a good idea if the pulp, or the soft tissue inside of your tooth that contains the nerves, becomes infected or inflamed. This is often caused by decay, but could also be caused by dental procedures or a chip in the tooth. It is important to treat an inflamed or infected pulp with a root canal so that you do not suffer serious pain or an abscess in the future. Signs that you may need root canal therapy include:
- Extra sensitivity to heat or cold
- Spot is tender to the touch
- Tooth is discolored
- Consistent pain or discomfort in the area
How Does a Root Canal Work?
The root canal process begins with an examination and x-rays administered by your dentist. He will then use a local anesthetic for your comfort and place a “dental dam” over the tooth to isolate it during treatment. Your dentist will make a small opening in the crown of the tooth and then clean the pulp out from the inside. After the cleaning is complete, he will fill the empty space with a rubber-like material and seal it with an adhesive cement. Following this appointment, you will return to your Anchorage dentist to have your tooth restored so that it can function and appear like it should.
How Long Will the Restored Tooth Last?
When restored properly and with the appropriate maintenance, a tooth with a root canal filling will last for many years. However, like any other tooth, it can become decayed or fractured or the tissue around it can get gum disease, so regular checkups and professional cleanings with a dental professional is recommended.
Tooth Pain? Contact Us for A Root Canal in Anchorage or Wasilla
Painful toothache putting you down for the count? To save your tooth and eliminate discomfort, call us today in Anchorage or Wasilla to discuss root canal therapy.