Having a root canal sounds scary to many people, but you shouldn’t dread getting one. Root canal treatment is a lot like having a cavity filled so there’s nothing to fear. The primary reason for getting a root canal is to preserve and restore a damaged tooth, which means you can avoid having the tooth extracted. At Northeast Family Dental in Ithaca, NY, root canal treatment performed by Dr. Marina Manunts can restore your oral health.

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is needed when a tooth is extremely infected, decayed, or damaged and would otherwise require extraction. With root canal treatment, it is possible to save the tooth and restore function.

A soft tissue material called pulp is at the center of each tooth. The pulp extends down into the canals of the tooth root, as well. When the pulp becomes severely infected, damaged, or decayed, it can be treated by performing a root canal. Without treatment, the condition will worsen until the tooth is so damaged it must be pulled out. Additionally, infection or decay could spread beyond the tooth and affect other areas of the mouth.

Root canal treatment is performed by drilling a small hole in the tooth to reach the pulp tissue at the center. The damaged pulp is carefully removed from the center of the tooth, as well as the canals of the root. Next, the interior of the tooth is cleaned and disinfected to ensure no infection or decay remains. The tooth is then filled with a special substance called gutta-percha that protects it from reinfection. Patients are sedated during the procedure to help them remain comfortable and relaxed.

In some cases, a crown might be placed over the treated tooth to further strengthen and protect it. If a crown is needed, it is usually placed during a separate visit. The experienced dentist at our practice in Ithaca, NY, can determine if root canal treatment is needed to preserve and restore your tooth.

Signs a Root Canal is Needed

Patients who need a root canal might experience various symptoms. Some signs root canal treatment is needed include:

• Pain that worsens over time
• Persistent or severe tooth pain
• Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold items
• Discomfort when biting and chewing foods
• Persistent pain or pressure in the mouth
• Discoloration or darkening of the tooth
• Gum swelling near the affected tooth
• Formation of a periodontal abscess

You shouldn’t dread getting a root canal. The procedure saves damaged teeth so you can avoid extraction. For a root canal in Ithaca, NY, schedule a consultation with Dr. Manunts by calling Northeast Family Dental at (607) 257-0060.