Root Canals
Sometimes when a tooth gets infected because bacteria present in a deep cavity enter the nerve, the result is a very painful condition known as an abscess. A root canal is a treatment used to clean out an infected tooth and save it from being extracted. Contrary to the myth that root canal treatment is very uncomfortable, most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure.
At times injury or fracture of a tooth may also require a root canal especially if the fracture results in the nerve being exposed to bacteria in the mouth. Front teeth are most susceptible to traumatic injury especially when participating in contact sports without the use of a proper mouth guard.
Usually root canal treatments can be performed in-office. However, in more complex cases or the odd case when a previous treatment has failed, a specialist (endodontist) referral may be needed.
Once the root canal treatment is completed, it is often recommended that the treated tooth is protected with a crown. Without a crown, root canal treated teeth can end up becoming more brittle and more susceptible to fracture in the future. This is especially true for the back teeth such as molars and premolars.
Sometimes teeth that have had root canals done can darken over time. Bleaching treatments can be used to lighten these teeth. Darkening is not visible on teeth that have been crowned.
If you have any further questions regarding this or any other treatment we provide, please do not hesitate to ask us.
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