Everything You Need to Know About Root Canals

A root canal is a dental treatment designed to remove bacteria from the canals of your tooth's root. When you undergo a root canal, the dentist removes infected pulp from the inside of your tooth. After the canal is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, the dentist fills and seals the tooth. If you live in Trenton, Dr. Nicholas Booker performs root canals and other dental services to help you maintain excellent oral health. Keep reading to learn more about root canals and how they benefit your teeth.

A root canal is a hollow area located inside your tooth. Inside this hollow area are blood vessels, nerve tissue and a group of cells called the pulp. When this area becomes infected, you experience pain. As a result, your dentist may suggest you receive a root canal.

What Causes Your Root Canal to Become Infected?

Root canals become infected because of various reasons. You may have a cracked tooth because of an injury, a deep cavity or problems that are related to a previous cavity feeling.

How do you know that your root canal is infected? Some of the symptoms include:

• Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
• Facial Swelling
• Cracked tooth
• Pain when chewing or biting
• Tender or swollen gums
• Pimples on the gums
• Dark or decaying gums

How is a Root Canal Performed?

A root canal is completed in the following three steps:

1. The dentist gives you local anesthesia. After administering anesthesia, the dentist creates a small hole in the surface of your tooth in order to access the infected area. Next, the dentist removes the dead or infected pulp from the root canal.
2. The dentist cleans and disinfects the root canal. They fill the hollow area with a rubber-like substance. Next, the dentist uses an adhesive cement to permanently seal the root canal. Since the nerve tissue and infection have been removed from the canal, you will no longer feel any pain in the tooth.
3. The dentist creates a crown or filling to protect the repaired tooth.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Schedule your appointment in Trenton with a dentist who performs root canals. Dr. Nicholas Booker provides a wide range of services that will help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile. Contact us for your appointment by calling (734) 675-5700.