For those of you who have never had a root canal, they can be scary. The reason they are scary is because they have developed a bad reputation. Most people think root canals are a very painful procedure when, in fact, they are not any more uncomfortable than getting a tooth filled. If you are wondering what root canals and haunted houses have in common, they are something we would like to avoid at all costs.
Why a Root Canal?
If your tooth is badly damaged, decayed, or infected but can still be saved, your dentist may recommend a root canal. A major goal of dentistry is to keep as much healthy tooth structure in place as possible even if the tooth is damaged. Root canals were invented for this purpose. Although they have developed a bad reputation, a root canal procedure is not much more involved than a regular dental filling.
The Root Canal Procedure
Your dentist will anesthetize the area around your damaged tooth before beginning endodontic (root canal) treatment. Once the anesthesia takes affect an access hole is drilled into the tooth. The pulp of the tooth is then removed. This step may be why root canals have such a bad rap. The pulp of your tooth is alive and consists of nerves, blood vessels, and living cells. Tooth pulp is extremely sensitive. However, the anesthesia numbs the whole area including the pulp. Once the pulp is removed the inside of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected and a rubber-like material (gutta percha) is placed inside the tooth to seal it off from bacteria. The access hole is then sealed with a dental filling and the procedure is complete.
ABOUT YOUR NORTH RICHLAND HILLS DENTIST:
With over 25 years of professional experience, Dr. Steven M. Huffstutler and his caring team proudly provide exceptional preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatment to patients and their families across Dallas/Ft. Worth, including North Richland Hills, Denton, the Mid-cities, Southlake, and all surrounding communities. We also have extensive experience helping patients find relief from painful TMJ disorders (various forms of jaw dysfunction). To schedule an appointment with Dr. Huffstutler, contact our office today by calling 817-918-3038.