Of all the procedures performed in a dentist’s office, a root canal is probably the most misunderstood. Say the words root canal to most people and the first thought that comes to mind is usually, “ouch.” Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, root canals in Lacey are done to eliminate the ouch of an infected tooth.
Why is a Root Canal Necessary?
A root canal is the dental treatment necessary when the center of a tooth becomes infected. This area is called the pulp chamber and contains lymph and blood tissue, as well as the nerve. These tissues flush away toxins and bring nutrients to the tooth through the root canals.
Normally, the pulp chamber and root canals are well protected by your tooth’s other layers of dentin and enamel. However, if you have a tooth with severe decay or a deep crack or fracture, then bacteria can reach this sensitive portion of your tooth. As the number of bacteria increases, infection develops. How does your body alert you that you have an infected tooth? Unfortunately, the first sign is usually pain—severe pain. Other signs include:
- Tooth sensitivity when you try to bite down on the tooth
- Swollen gums around the tooth
- A pimple-like sore alongside the tooth
- Facial swelling
- Feeling like you have an earache
- Fever
- An abscess seen on an x-ray
Although cases are rare, there are times when a patient can have an infected tooth without pain or other outward signs. A root canal in Lacey must still be performed in order to avoid the spread of infection.
What happens during a root canal?
The first step taken by Dr. Peterson or Dr. Cammack is to anesthetize your tooth and surrounding tissue. Then, a small hole is drilled into your tooth, so the dentist in Lacey can access the pulp chamber and attached root canals. Using small and narrow instruments, the dentist cleans the chamber, removing both the infection and tissue. Fortunately, a tooth can function perfectly well without the contents of the pulp chamber.
Once the chamber is cleaned and disinfected, it is filled with a rubber-like biocompatible substance that prevents infection from returning. Finally the chamber is sealed and the tooth is prepared for a dental crown. Your Lacey dentist will likely prescribe an antibiotic to ensure the infection is completely eliminated.
Call Our Office Today
If you have a painful tooth, schedule an appointment with Peterson & Cammack in Lacey, WA.