7864 US-117 Suite A, Rocky Point, NC 28457, United States
Protect Your Natural Tooth With Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is a restorative procedure designed to save a tooth that’s infected or severely damaged inside. Each tooth has a soft inner tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels that help keep the tooth alive. When the pulp becomes infected—often due to deep decay, a crack, or an injury—it can cause significant pain, swelling, and sensitivity.
Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp, thoroughly cleans and disinfects the inner chamber, and seals the tooth to prevent future infection. This treatment not only relieves discomfort but also preserves your natural tooth and helps maintain a healthy, functional smile.
When is a Root Canal Needed?
A root canal is typically recommended when decay or damage reaches the pulp of the tooth. Ignoring these symptoms can allow the infection to spread, leading to more serious complications or even tooth loss.
Common signs you may need a root canal include:
- Persistent or severe tooth pain
- Discomfort while chewing or applying pressure
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the tooth
- Tooth discoloration or darkening
If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your dentist promptly to prevent further damage and preserve your natural tooth.
Who Can Benefit from Root Canal Therapy?
Your dentist will perform a thorough examination, often with an X-ray, to determine whether the pulp is infected or exposed. If so, a root canal is usually the best option to save the tooth and relieve your pain.
This procedure is safe, highly effective, and performed routinely in modern dental practices. With today’s advanced techniques, patients experience minimal discomfort and long-lasting results.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your comfort is our priority throughout the root canal process. The procedure typically involves:
- Numbing the Tooth: Local anesthesia is used to ensure you remain completely comfortable.
- Isolating the Area: A small dental dam keeps the tooth clean and dry during treatment.
- Cleaning and Removing Infection: The dentist removes decay and infected pulp, then disinfects the inner canals.
- Filling and Sealing: The cleaned space is filled with a protective material to prevent reinfection.
- Restoring the Tooth: In most cases, a crown is placed afterward to strengthen the tooth and restore its natural shape.
Root canal therapy may sound intimidating, but it’s a safe, proven way to eliminate pain, stop infection, and protect your natural smile for years to come.