Root Canals
What exactly are Root Canals?
A root canal is necessary when a tooth has become severely decayed or has had its inner pulp exposed through a crack or tooth fracture. Root canals are done in under an hour and are one of the most common procedures performed. At Family Dental of Fairfax City, our goal is to provide you with a root canal that saves the structural integrity of the tooth while providing efficient pain relief. Root canals are done to essentially save the tooth from being fully extracted.
Why would you need to have a Root Canal?
You may need a root canal if a cavity was left untreated and was able to infect the inner pulp of the tooth. The root canal involves removing this pulp, which saves the tooth from being extracted while simultaneously eliminating any pain or discomfort. In other instances, the pulp may have become exposed through a crack or fracture. Once exposed, the pulp will need to be removed to prevent severe pain and sensitivity.
A root canal is necessary when a tooth has become severely decayed or has had its inner pulp exposed through a crack or tooth fracture.
What makes you a viable candidate for a Root Canal?
Before a root canal is performed, you’ll need an x-ray and exam. The x-ray can help to determine if decay has been able to reach the pulp of the tooth. If a crack or break is present, the x-ray and an exam is necessary in determining if the pulp was exposed. A root canal is ideal for patients who want to save a tooth rather than simply having it removed. The procedure retains the integrity and structure of the tooth while removing the decay and infection.
What can be expected during the procedure for a Root Canal?
The first step is to receive anesthetic to make the root canal more comfortable. A dental dam is then used to separate the affected tooth from the rest of the mouth. The decay is removed from the tooth and the pulp fully exposed. Dr. Dary will then remove the pulp and clean the long canals of the tooth.
Some teeth are more complex to do root canals on, particularly molars, as their anatomy consists of multiple and intertwining canals. Dr. Dary will ocassionally refer patients that need complex root canal treatment to an endodontist, which is a root canal specialist. Specialists have microscopes designed to view the anatomy of these little canals.
Once he canals are accesses they are filled with a thin medicated material that will help in preventing infection. The hole that was made during the root canal will be filled and hardened with a curing light. You will be ready to go home and experience a tooth that’s on it’s way to being healthy again. You will most likely need an additional appointment to have a crown placed on the tooth, to protect the root canal area and make sure the tooth is structurally sound.
If you think you might need a root canal or want to know more about this procedure, call our office to speak with one of our helpful staff members.