Root canal therapy, often simply referred to as a "root canal," is a common dental procedure that can save your tooth from extraction. The process involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, and then filling and sealing it. Root canal therapy is typically necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels, becomes inflamed or infected. This can occur due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. At Murrysville Dental Center, Dr. Brian Belsterling is highly skilled in performing root canal therapy, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure.
DID YOU KNOW?
Root canal therapy has a success rate of over 95% and treated teeth can last a lifetime!
Why May I Need Root Canal Therapy?
The primary reason to get root canal therapy is to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. Without treatment, the infection can become severe enough that the tooth has to be removed. Root canal therapy allows you to keep your natural tooth, which is always the best option. Keeping your natural tooth helps prevent other teeth from drifting out of line and causing jaw problems. It also means you won't have to undergo the time and expense of getting an artificial tooth. Furthermore, root canal therapy can alleviate the often severe pain caused by pulp infection.
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The Benefits Of Root Canal Therapy
Pain Relief
One of the most immediate benefits of root canal therapy is pain relief. An infected tooth can cause severe and constant pain. By removing the infected pulp during a root canal, Dr. Belsterling can effectively eliminate this pain, bringing you immediate relief.
Prevents Spread of Infection
Root canal therapy not only treats the infected tooth, but it also helps prevent the spread of the infection to other teeth or to your jawbone. This is vital as a spread of infection can lead to more serious health complications.
Maintains Natural Appearance
After a root canal, your tooth will function like any other tooth. The crown or filling placed after the procedure will match the color of your other teeth, so it won't be noticeable when you smile or speak. This means you can maintain the natural appearance of your smile.
The Root Canal Therapy Treatment Process
Examination and X-ray
The first step in the root canal therapy process is a thorough examination of the affected tooth and an X-ray to determine the extent of the damage or infection.
Anesthesia and Pulp Removal
Once the extent of the damage is determined, Dr. Belsterling will administer local anesthesia to numb the area. He will then make a small opening in the crown of your tooth to access the pulp chamber. The infected or inflamed pulp is carefully removed.
Cleaning, Filling, and Sealing
After the pulp is removed, the inside of your tooth will be carefully cleaned and disinfected. It is then filled with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha and sealed with a temporary filling.
Before & Afters
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Frequently Asked Questions
