Root canal treatment is not as scary as it sounds. In fact, it’s a mostly painless, simple procedure that removes areas of infection within your tooth to prevent the need for extraction. If your dentist in Charleston, WV, recommends a root canal, it means your natural tooth can be saved, eliminating the need for a costly dental implant.
What Do I Need to Know About Root Canals?
Every tooth has a root canal. This is the area of nerve endings, blood vessels, and connective tissue that’s located beneath the enamel and dentin of your tooth. This pulp has a purpose — it helps the root of your tooth to grow as your tooth develops. If this area becomes infected, you may need a root canal. During root canal treatment, your endodontist drills into the tooth and removes the infected pulp. They later clean and disinfect the area and fill the tooth to prevent re-infection.
Your dentist in Charleston will use anesthesia to perform your root canal, which means it won’t be unnecessarily painful. You may notice soreness in this area following the procedure, but your dentist can prescribe pain medication for relief.
How Will I Know if I Need a Root Canal?
There are many situations that may require root canal treatment. Usually, if you begin to notice unusual sensitivity to hot or cold foods, or if your tooth hurts when you bite or chew, a root canal may help. You may notice other symptoms, too. These include:
- Gums that are swollen or painful
- Pimples on your gums
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Tooth decay or darkening gums
If you notice symptoms such as these, talk to your dentist about scheduling a consultation for root canal treatment in Charleston.
Call Michael J. Tupta, DDS
In the Charleston, West Virginia area, Michael J. Tupta, DDS, is a top choice for your family’s dental care. Whether you need routine, preventative dental care or specialty services such as root canal treatment, our friendly clinicians are able to help. Call us today to schedule an initial consultation for care.
You’re going to love the service you receive when you call Michael J. Tupta, Family Dentistry in Charleston for all your family’s oral health care needs.