Root canal therapy is a procedure used to effectively restore a severely infected tooth. In fact, millions of damaged teeth that would otherwise be extracted are saved using root canal therapy every year.
Signs You Could Need Root Canal Therapy
You should arrange to see our dentist in Traverse City right away if you have a toothache that won’t go away. This is an indication of a serious problem, such as advanced gum disease or a severely infected tooth. These problems won’t magically disappear if left untreated. Instead, they will probably lead to further complications such as the eventual loss of one or more teeth.
In addition to a severe toothache, additional signs that you could require root canal therapy include sensitivity to hot or cold beverages, swelling around the base of the tooth, or a tooth that changes color, becoming brown or grey. Unfortunately, an infected tooth can exist for quite a while with no noticeable symptoms. That’s why it’s so important to visit Dr. Klym for regular checkups to monitor potential issues before they get out of hand.
Why You Could Need a Root Canal
Your tooth consists of three parts, the enamel, dentin, and pulp.
The hard, white outer layer that protects your tooth is called the enamel. Beneath the enamel is a layer known as dentin, which is softer than enamel and yellowish in color. Underneath the dentin is the pulp, the innermost layer of the tooth. The pulp contains the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that nourish the tooth, particularly when it’s growing.
Root canal therapy becomes necessary when the pulp gets infected. This can be the result of an untreated cavity, physical trauma such as a blow to the mouth, or a crack that allows bacteria to penetrate the tooth.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
The first thing Dr. Klym does during root canal therapy is numb the tooth with novacane. When the patient is ready, a sheet of latex known as a dental dam is placed around the tooth to isolate the rest of the mouth from the surgical site.
Then Dr. Klym makes a small hole to remove the damaged pulp and clean out the tooth. After that, we fill the tooth with a rubber-like material known as gutta percha. Finally, a custom designed dental crown is cemented on top of the tooth to seal the site, protecting it from future infection. The crown will blend seamlessly with your smile.
Additionally, anxious patients may choose to employ sedation dentistry during a root canal for enhanced calm and comfort.
We have an excellent record for restoring teeth with root canal therapy thanks to Dr. Klym’s extensive experience and our superior diagnostic and surgical tools such as the Kodak 90003 Scanner.
Comprehensive Dental Care You Can Trust
At Northwood Dental, we provide complete dental care for our patients in Traverse City. Call today to schedule your next checkup. In addition to preventive care, we offer a range of cosmetic and restorative services to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.