Root Canal Therapy in Columbus

What is Root Canal Therapy?

We understand the thought of a root canal may be stressful but did you know they can save your natural tooth, relieve your pain, and enhance your overall health? Root canal therapy is a dental procedure aimed at treating infection at the center of a tooth (the root canal system). This treatment is crucial when the pulp inside the tooth, made up of soft tissue including nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or inflamed. The process involves removing the damaged area of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting it, and then filling and sealing it to prevent further infection. We strive to make your treatment as comfortable as possible so you can embrace a healthy, pain-free smile.

The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy offers several benefits, including pain relief and the prevention of more serious oral health issues. It's a common misconception that root canals are painful, but with modern techniques and anesthesia, the procedure is typically no more uncomfortable than having a filling.

Pain Relief

Root canal therapy effectively relieves pain caused by a tooth infection or inflammation. The procedure removes the infected pulp, which is the source of pain, and cleans the inside of the tooth. This eliminates the discomfort and allows the tooth to heal.

Prevents Tooth Loss

By treating the infection and saving the natural tooth, root canal therapy prevents the need for tooth extraction. Keeping your natural teeth is beneficial for your oral health, as it maintains your natural bite and prevents other teeth from shifting.

Enhances Overall Oral Health

Root canal therapy contributes to overall oral health. By removing the source of infection, it prevents the spread of infection to other teeth and the jawbone. This treatment also helps in maintaining the natural alignment of teeth and the integrity of the jawbone.

The Root Canal Therapy Treatment Process

The root canal therapy process involves several steps to ensure the infected pulp is thoroughly removed and the tooth is protected against future infections.

Diagnosis and Anesthesia
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The process begins with a thorough examination, often including X-rays, to determine the extent of the infection. Once the need for a root canal is confirmed, local anesthesia is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure.

Pulp Removal and Cleaning
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Your Columbus dentist will then drill a small access hole in the tooth to reach the pulp chamber. The infected or inflamed pulp is then carefully removed. Using specialized instruments, your dentist will clean and shape the root canals to prepare them for filling. This step is crucial for removing all infection and debris.

Filling and
Sealing
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‍After cleaning, the root canals are filled with a biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, to prevent bacteria from re-entering. The access hole is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling to protect the tooth from further infection. In some cases, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy will need further restoration, such as a crown, to protect and restore its functionality. This step is often completed in a follow-up appointment.

FAQs

Do root canals hurt?

Modern root canal treatments are typically no more painful than having a filling or another restorative dental procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, making the procedure relatively pain-free.

How long will it take to recover?

Recovery from a root canal is usually quick. Most patients can return to their normal activities the next day. Some sensitivity or discomfort may be experienced for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

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