Root CanalRoot Canal Treatment provided by Jason Larsen, DDS and Jean Larsen, DDS in Murphy, TX at Parkside Dental  A tooth is susceptible to decay if you fail to keep up with oral hygiene or you skip your routine dental checks and exams. Often, decay can occur without knowing, and by the time you realize it, it has already damaged your tooth significantly. Bacteria from the mouth may enter the cavity and eventually reach the pulp tissue. The dental pulp is found in the innermost part of a tooth after dentin, which forms the second layer, and the enamel, that makes the first layer of a tooth. In the pulp tissue is where you find nerve cells, connective tissue, and blood arteries. An infection of inflammation in this tissue can send you feeling excruciating pain. At Parkside Dental, we opt for a root canal therapy if the pulp has been infected or is inflamed. Signs You Need Root Canal TherapyThe pulp is crucial during the developmental period of the tooth, however, once the tooth is mature, you can survive without the pulp tissue. When there is a large cavity in a tooth, the bacteria within the cavity can enter the pulp where it infects it. You may have symptoms that start with sensitivity to cold, hot, or pressure. Not treated, the sensitivity develops into a toothache, often worsening over time. Your gums may also become swollen or you may develop an abscess, which can be fatal. Sometimes, you may not have pain, especially when the pulp tissue becomes dead. However, this does not mean that the infection is not present. In fact, the pulp infection may continue to occur and could extend to reach the hard tissue down into the jawbone. This can lead to deterioration of the jawbone. Root Canal ProcedureOur dentist works to access the inner part of the tooth in order to remove the infected pulp tissue. You are numbed during this procedure, so your experience feels more like getting a filling for a tooth cavity, though a root canal takes a bit longer. The root canal specialist from our team gains access to your pulp chamber and cleans out the infected tissue along with the nerve. We use an antibacterial solution to clean the canals in order to eliminate bacteria. Once clean, we fill the canals and seal them with a special dental material. You will then come back several weeks later to get a crown that covers the tooth to offer protection and ensure it functions as normal. In the meantime, you will get a temporary filling so that the hollowed area is not exposed to bacteria, debris, and plaque. The temporary filling also allows you to use the tooth as you wait for the crown. In your last visit, you get the crown fitted over the tooth. Aftercare Tips for Root Canal TherapyIn the first days after receiving root canal treatment, you will likely experience sensitivity, however, you can use the medication we prescribe to do away with the discomfort. Should the after-treatment symptoms continue manifesting, contact us immediately. Avoid drinking hot beverages, using a straw, or consuming alcohol. Do not smoke also because it slows down the healing and can even cause infection. Last but not least, do not hesitate to see us for checkups and follow-ups on the treatment as we advise you. Visit us at Parkside Dental to learn about root canal therapy. Contact us at 972-442-7550 to schedule your appointment. |
 |
