For many, a root canal is the source of immediate anxiety or fear. The myths and untruths surrounding root canal therapy are as present as ever, but the reality is that a root canal is no more painful than a standard cavity that requires dental care. Root canals are often performed to save a tooth that has been compromised by severe decay or infection that has reached the inner pulp. Avoiding a necessary root canal will almost always result in the tooth needing to be extracted. Patients in the Tampa, Florida area who visit Drs. Angela Rasmussen and Amanda Del Cueto at Gentle Dentistry are pleasantly surprised by how gentle this effective procedure is!
Why Is a Root Canal Necessary?
A root canal, also called endodontic therapy, is necessary when deep decay, infection, or damage occurs to a tooth penetrating the inner pulp chamber. When a tooth’s pulp becomes compromised by bacteria, this can trigger inflammation, pain, and infection, which can spread to other areas of the body when left untreated.
While some dentists may recommend removing a tooth at this stage, Drs. Rasmussen and Del Cueto are fully committed to saving every one of your teeth when possible.
The Success of Root Canals
Our patients see a tremendous success rate with root canals because Drs. Rasmussen and Del Cueto consider your whole health situation before recommending such action. Before referring you to an endodontic specialist, we will consider:
- The immediate issue occurring with your tooth
- Your overall oral health
- Your overall medical status
- Your current emotional state
When root canal therapy is considered the best available course of action, we will refer you to a trusted specialist whose number one goal is to remove your discomfort. This may involve a prescription for antibiotics and pain medication, or it could result in immediate treatment. Once your mouth is completely numbed, the tooth requiring the root canal will be opened, releasing the internal pressure. Any existing decay or damage will then be removed, and the inner chamber of the tooth, completely disinfected before sealing the tooth again. A temporary filling material will generally be used to ensure all symptoms have been relieved before a long-term solution, such as a crown, is put in place to reinforce and protect the weakened tooth.
Call Us Today!
To learn more about root canal therapy, please visit our team at Gentle Dentistry in Tampa, Florida. To schedule a consultation, please call (813) 734-7102.
