Root Canal Treatment and Restorations
When a tooth is affected by a deep cavity or extensive decay and results in tooth pain, a root canal treatment will eliminate both the pain and infection, salvaging a tooth that would otherwise require extraction. Although root canal treatments are sometimes associated with discomfort, in reality the procedure is no more painful than treatment of a minor cavity, and actually eliminates the intense pain often present with an extensively decayed tooth. When you visit a highly-trained Philadelphia cosmetic dentist at Artistic Expressions Dentistry, we can determine if root canal treatment is appropriate for you, and place an attractive restoration on the treated tooth.
What is a Root Canal?
Inside each tooth are one to four small channels, or canals, that run from the bottom of the tooth roots up into the center of the tooth. The root canal contains the tooth’s pulp, the tissues in the core of the tooth, as well as nerve tissue.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal treatment, also called root canal therapy or simply a root canal, is a comprehensive method of cleaning and removing the pulp and nerve tissues from a tooth. When decay is present down near the tooth’s center, mostly likely the pulp is already infected and must be eradicated to prevent more extensive damage, including tooth abscesses. Once the teeth have developed, the inner tissues of the tooth provide sensitivity only and are not essential to the function of the tooth.
About the Root Canal Treatment Process
During a root canal treatment, a small hole is made in the enamel so that the infected pulp and tissues can be thoroughly removed from the inside of the tooth. Once the inner tissues and bacteria have been taken away, the center cavity and canals are cleaned and disinfected, then packed with a rubber material to seal off the treated tooth. Prior to the procedure, x-rays will be taken to determine the shape and size of your root canals and ensure that they are properly cleaned and filled. For your comfort, local anesthesia will also be used during the treatment. If needed, additional anesthesia will be administered as the root canal therapy ventures deeper into the tooth, preventing any pain.
Root Canal Restorations
After a root canal treatment is complete, a dental restoration is placed to protect the structure of the tooth, restore the aesthetics of your mouth, and aid in chewing function. Since many teeth that require root canal treatments are deeply decayed, damaged, or have a large filling, a dental crown is commonly secured to the treated tooth. The best option for patients is a dental crown crafted from quality porcelain, a more durable and natural-looking alternative to the metal crowns of the past. We’ve successfully restored the teeth of our Philadelphia dental crowns patients with beautiful results.
Contact Artistic Expressions Dentistry
We’re looking forward to making your root canal experience as comfortable as possible. For more information on root canal treatments and restorations, please contact our Philadelphia cosmetic dentistry practice and schedule your appointment.
