What is a Root Canal?

The two scariest words at the Tampa dentist: root canal. Even if you don’t know what it means, you’ve heard the horror stories from friends and families about the surgery and the recovery process, and that was enough to scare you. It may sound like the last thing you want to do, this procedure will actually allow your Tampa dentist to save a painful, infected, or even decaying tooth.

Effective Solution of Painful Teeth is Root Canal

If you are in need of a root canal, it is because the tooth has become severely infected. This infection is usually caused by an oral injury or an untreated cavity. Without a root canal, or if the root canal is put off for too long, chances are your Tampa dentist will have to remove the tooth altogether.

During the process of a root canal, your dentist will numb the area to prevent any pain. Once the area is sufficiently numb, your dentist will drill into the tooth, where they are able to remove the infected area. Once everything is removed and the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, the tooth is filled with a temporary filling until a crown can be provided at a later time. The crown will be placed once your mouth has healed, so as not to create too much pain or strain on the teeth and gums.

After the procedure, you will need to rest and eat the proper foods. Your dentist can provide you a suggested list of foods and drinks that will not cause pain or healing complications. You will also need to maintain a regular cleaning schedule with your dentist to prevent any other teeth from becoming infected and to ensure that your crown is functioning.

Root canals sound scary, but they can provide you great relief if you are suffering from an infected tooth. Consult our staff at North Pointe Dental if you think you are in need of a root canal procedure.