Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Treatment

A root canal in Boca Raton is one of the most notorious dental treatments that scare people off. Whenever patients learn that they need this treatment to save their teeth, they don’t show up.  

They would rather endure the pain and deal with the risks than go through treatment, which is unfortunate because root canal therapy is a quick and painless procedure that will help improve your oral health. The only reason it has gained a bad rep is that patients don’t take the time to learn the facts. If your case requires root canal therapy, it pays to know what it is and what it can do for you.

Most Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy  

What Is Your Tooth Made Of?  

A tooth is made up of several layers. The outermost layer is the enamel, and underneath it is the dentin. The dentin supports the enamel while at the same time offering protection to the dental pulp.  

The dental pulp consists of connective tissues, blood vessels, and nerves. The primary role of the dental pulp is to make dentin and nourish your tooth during growth and development. This is why dental pulp is vital while your teeth are still growing. However, when fully developed, your teeth can do without it.  

Can Your Dental Pulp Get Damaged? 

The dental pulp can get inflamed, infected, and damaged because of the following reasons: 

• Tooth injury 
• Blow to the jaw 
• Multiple dental treatments are done repeatedly to the same tooth 

• Extensive tooth decay 
• Damaged crown 
• A chip in your tooth 

If your tooth’s structure is compromised, bacteria can enter the pulp and instigate an infection.   

What Is Root Canal Therapy? 

Root canal therapy is a treatment performed by either a general dentist or an endodontist. The procedure involves removing the inflamed or infected dental pulp to stop the spread of infection, relieve you from pain, and protect your tooth against future reinfection.  

Ultimately, the goal is to save your tooth. After removing the decayed pulp, the hollow chamber is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. It will then be filled with gutta-percha and sealed with a filling or a dental crown.  

How Do You Know If You Need Root Canal Treatment? 

There are several signs your endodontist will look out for before suggesting root canal therapy. Some of the signs that you need a root canal are the following: 

• Severe tooth pain when you chew or when pressure is applied 
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures 
• Gum discoloration 
• Tooth discoloration 
• Swelling and tenderness in surrounding gum tissues 

Is The Procedure Painful? 

Root canal therapy is not painful. The purpose of the treatment is to relieve you from pain. Some patients even describe the sensation as similar to getting a dental filling. Besides, your endodontist will apply local anesthesia on the site during the treatment so you won’t feel anything.  

Do You Need a Root Canal in Boca Raton? 

Dentists would always choose the former between a root canal and an extraction to save your tooth. Although tooth replacement solutions are readily available, they will never be as good as your natural teeth.  

At 5^th Avenue Dental, we provide a wide array of dental treatments to help restore your oral health and give you a beautiful and dazzling smile. Contact us today for an appointment.