Dental pain of any kind warns the patient--and his or her dentist--that something is amiss, says Dear Doctor. Left unchecked, symptoms worsen and may necessitate a common restorative procedure called root canal therapy. Comfortable and very effective, a root canal performed by Booker Family Dentistry in Trenton, MI, quells symptoms and avoids tooth extraction. Dr. Nicholas Booker and his team will take you through the entire process safely.
What is root canal therapy?
Root canal therapy is also called endodontic therapy. It treats the pulp contained in the interior tooth chamber and slim passageways of each root. Decay, oral trauma, infection (abscess) and more can damage this vascular and innervated pulp.
Root canal therapy removes the pulp and seals and crowns the tooth for many additional years of service to the patient. Dr. Booker performs the entire process--from exam and X-rays to pulp removal and sealing to final crown placement--at Booker Family Dentistry in Trenton, MI.
Most patients need only local anesthetic to control discomfort, and they heal well afterwards. If you need a root canal, expect two one-hour visits spaced a week or so apart. Dr. Booker will open each canal, extract the pulp, clean out the area and instill antibiotic medication. Then, he seals the canals with gutta-percha, a natural material which strengthens the tooth and makes it less brittle.
A temporary crown covers the tooth as it heals, and a porcelain crown protects and beautifies it for the long term. The American Dental Association (ADA) says a root canal can help your tooth last for the rest of your life.
What tells Dr. Booker you need a root canal?
There are many symptoms which signal the need for endodontic intervention. They may include:
- Extreme dental pain (throbbing toothache)
- Darkened tooth enamel
- Sharp pain upon biting and chewing
- Dental sensitivity to cold or heat
- Loss of a substantial amount of tooth structure through accident or decay
- A pimple on the gums near the tooth
- Reddened gums
- Bad breath
Caring for your restored tooth
It's simple: brush twice daily with a soft brush, and floss carefully around the tooth to remove plaque. Avoid the excessive wear and tear caused by teeth clenching by wearing a bite guard. See your dentist semi-annually for check-ups and hygienic cleanings.
Don't worry
If you have dental symptoms, Dr. Booker and his team will help you regain your oral health quickly and comfortably. To learn more about root canal therapy, please call (734) 675-5700 to schedule a consultation at Booker Family Dentistry in Trenton, MI!