Root Canal Therapy
At Smile Center Silicon Valley, we routinely perform a restorative procedure known as a root canal to remove infected or damaged tissue from within an affected tooth and save it from being extracted. Before the procedure, our dentist numbsthe area surrounding the affected tooth. Next, they create a small opening in the tooth to access the inner chambers. The dentist then uses special instruments to remove the damaged tissue from the tooth’s chambers and canals and cleans the area before filling it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Finally, they place a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it until the permanent one is ready and can be placed.
After the root canal procedure is complete, patients must schedule another appointment to have their custom crown placed over the treated tooth. The crown will not only help to protect the tooth from further damage, but it will also help to restore the overall appearance of the smile.
What Are the Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection?
A patient who needs root canal therapy may have one or several symptoms that indicate the presence of an infection. Some patients may experience severe tooth pain, sensitivity, or tenderness in a tooth. This may happen when a patient bites down too hard on food or if they experience temperatures that are too hot or too cold. Severe toothaches can occur suddenly or build over time. Other signs that a person needs endodontic care include bleeding gums, bad breath, a fever, or loose teeth.
If a traditional filling can no longer be placed, or if a crown breaks off, a dentist may recommend treating the tooth with a root canal. Treating these problems immediately is essential to avoid more serious health issues.
The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Pain Relief
One of the primary benefits of root canal therapy is the relief of severe tooth pain. When the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause intense and persistent toothaches. By removing the infected tissue and cleaning the root canals, a root canal procedure helps eliminate the source of the pain and provides relief.
Tooth Preservation
Root canal therapy allows for the preservation of the natural tooth structure. Unlike tooth extraction, which would require replacing the missing tooth with a dental implant, bridge, or denture, a root canal saves the natural tooth. Preserving the natural tooth is beneficial for maintaining proper chewing function, keeping the alignment of neighboring teeth, and maintaining the smile's aesthetic appearance.
Efficient Chewing and Speaking
A root canal restores proper tooth function by treating the infection or inflammation in the tooth. This enables efficient chewing and biting, allowing you to enjoy various foods and maintain a balanced diet. Additionally, root canal treatment helps in restoring clear speech by resolving any discomfort or pain that may have been affecting pronunciation.
A successful root canal treatment eliminates the infection and restores the tooth's health. To learn more about the benefits of root canal therapy, visit Smile Center Silicon Valley at 877 W. FREMONT AVE, SUITE L3, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, or call (408) 245-7500.