Root Canals

What are root canals?

A root canal is a procedure to treat infection or decay in the nerve of a tooth. The treatment involves removing the living tissue inside the tooth called the pulp. Tooth pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that are vital to early tooth development. Once the tooth matures, pulp no longer serves a critical function.

Removing the pulp and replacing it with a biocompatible material ensures that the infection or decay can’t spread. Not only does the procedure help save the affected tooth, it also protects your surrounding teeth from damage.

Who needs root canals?

A root canal is a tooth-saving treatment that saves teeth that would otherwise require removal. Common signs that you may benefit from a root canal include:

• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Severe tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
• Foul taste in mouth
• Pain when chewing
• Small pimple on the gums

A small bump or pimple on the gums is a sign of an abscess. This pus-filled sac contains potentially harmful bacteria. Without prompt treatment, an abscess can rupture and bacteria can infiltrate your bloodstream.

What do root canals involve?

A root canal typically requires more than one appointment, but Dr. Parhizkar may perform your treatment at your first visit. 

The first step in a root canal is to numb the tooth with a local anesthetic. Next, Dr. Parhizkar places a rubber dam around the tooth to protect it from saliva. He then creates a small access hole in the center of the tooth and uses small dental instruments to remove the pulp and any nerves, blood vessels, and bacteria.

Dr. Parhizkar cleans and disinfects the tooth chamber to ensure there is no leftover bacteria. Finally, he replaces the pulp with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and seals the access hole to restore your tooth function.

Depending on the severity of your infection or decay, Dr. Parhizkar may recommend returning to Advanced Family Dentistry for a dental crown. This tooth-shaped cap fits over the visible portion of your tooth to protect it from additional damage or decay.

To learn more about root canals, call Advanced Family Dentistry or schedule an appointment online today.