How many people get root canal therapy each year? Do you have a clue? According to the American Association of Endodontists, around 15 million Americans undergo root canal therapy every year. Despite how common this procedure is based on statistics, sadly, a lot of people still believe in rumors and myths. A root canal in Issaquah is recommended if the nerve within the tooth has become so damaged as a result of bacterial infection.
This usually happens when a large chip, crack, or cavity in the tooth exposes the nerve to harmful bacteria. In such a case, patients complain of severe and persistent pain. To save the tooth, your dentist will perform root canal therapy.
If your tooth can still be saved despite the dental pulp being infected and inflamed, your dentist will refer you to an endodontist for a root canal procedure. A root canal is a treatment that involves the removal of the infected pulp.
The pulp consists of blood vessels, connective tissues, and nerves that contribute to your tooth’s growth and development. This procedure will require local anesthesia to keep you calm and relaxed during the treatment.
Endodontists suggest a root canal if the pulp within your tooth’s chamber is infected or inflamed. There are times when the crown is completely intact even if the pulp inside is already dead.
Dental health experts prefer to remove the infected pulp to prevent the infection from spreading and to keep the structure of your tooth. The usual causes of an infected pulp are a chip or a crack in your tooth, deep tooth decay as a result of a cavity that’s left untreated, tooth injury, and multiple procedures done on the same affected tooth.
Patients who suffer from an infected pulp often manifest fever, tooth abscess, swelling in the jaw or face, tooth pain that’s so severe it will keep you up all night, pain in the jaw surrounding the tooth, prolonged tooth sensitivity, and persistent and throbbing tooth pain. The symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the infection.
The procedure is performed in the clinic. Your endodontist will apply a numbing medication over the gums proximal to the affected tooth. When the medication starts to kick in, your gums will be injected with local anesthesia. As soon as the needles pierce through your gums you’ll experience a temporary pinching sensation. You’ll be awake during the duration of the procedure but don’t worry because you’ll be anesthetized so you won’t feel any pain.
When you can no longer feel any sensation in your tooth, your endodontist will create a tiny opening at the top of your tooth to expose the infected pulp. Files are used to remove the decayed and infected pulp.
The canals within the chamber will be carefully disinfected. Once all the infected pulp has been removed, your endodontist will apply a topical antibiotic to prevent reinfection. The tooth will then be filled up with a rubbery material known as gutta-percha. Lastly, it will be sealed with a paste.
If your tooth or gums feel sore or if you experience persistent tooth pain, let your dentist know right away. A root canal therapy may be all you need to save your tooth. At Apex Dental, your oral health is our number one priority.
We offer various dental treatments such as cosmetic, general, and restorative dentistry to help restore your oral health. We’ve been in the industry since 2002 and for years we’ve always been consistent in the kind of care we provide our patients with. Call us today to learn more about our offers.
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