Root Canal Therapy That Gets to the Root of the Problem
The dentist performs a root canal when the soft pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed. That pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that help develop the tooth, but aren’t necessary for adult tooth function. When infection sets in, the doctor removes the pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and protects it with a strong filling or crown.
Root Canal Therapy in Pulaski Saves Natural Teeth
The dentist focuses on preserving your natural tooth whenever possible. Root canal therapy allows us to stop infection while keeping your original tooth structure intact. This approach maintains your bite, protects neighboring teeth, and prevents shifting.
- Treats deep decay or trauma
- Removes bacteria and infected tissue
- Prevents abscesses and bone loss
- Eliminates pain and sensitivity
- Supports long-term tooth stability
Signs the Patient Might Need a Root Canal
Pain often alerts the patient to a deeper problem. When evaluating your symptoms, the dentist looks for clear signs of infection or damage. You may need a root canal if you notice:
- Lingering pain after eating or drinking
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling in the gums or jaw
- A dark or discolored tooth
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
What Happens During Treatment
The dentist starts by numbing the area and placing a small shield to keep the tooth dry. Then we create a small opening in the tooth’s crown to access the pulp chamber. The dentist uses special tools to remove the infected pulp, shape the canals, and disinfect the interior.
Once cleaned, the dentist fills the canals with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. We seal the tooth and often place a crown to restore strength and appearance. Depending on the complexity, most root canals take one or two appointments.
Root Canals Aren’t as Scary as You Think
Many patients feel anxious about root canal treatment, but our approach keeps discomfort low and recovery fast. The dentist uses local anesthetics and advanced tools to minimize pressure and vibration. Most patients compare the experience to getting a regular filling.
Why the Dentist Might Recommend a Crown Afterward
After root canal therapy, the tooth may lose some strength. The dentist places a custom crown to reinforce it and prevent cracks, which also helps restore normal chewing and protects the tooth from future damage.
Infection Left Untreated Gets Worse
If the patient ignores signs of infection, the bacteria can spread beyond the tooth. When infection moves past the root, the dentist treats abscesses, bone loss, and gum inflammation. Early root canal therapy prevents these serious complications and keeps the damage local.
We Use Technology That Speeds Up the Process
The dentist uses digital imaging and precision tools to efficiently plan and perform root canals. These technologies help us identify infected areas clearly, clean thoroughly, and reduce the need for retreatment. Our materials also shorten healing time and boost long-term success.
Post-Treatment Care at Home
The patient may feel some tenderness for a few days after the procedure. The dentist recommends avoiding hard foods on that side of the mouth until the permanent crown is placed. Over-the-counter medication helps with mild discomfort, and the staff checks in to ensure everything heals properly.
Kids Can Sometimes Need Root Canals Too
If decay reaches the pulp, the dentist may perform pulpotomies or root canal therapy on baby teeth. Saving baby teeth helps preserve spacing and prevent bite problems later. We use gentle techniques and kid-friendly tools to make treatment easier for young patients.
Root Canal Retreatment Is Rare but Sometimes Needed
If a tooth doesn’t heal properly or bacteria return, the dentist may perform a second root canal. Retreatment helps preserve the tooth longer and prevents extraction. We use advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the issue and correct it.
Don’t Let Dental Pain Ruin Your Routine
Tooth pain affects mood, energy, and the ability to eat or sleep comfortably. The dentist acts quickly to treat the source of the pain and stop it from spreading. Contact us for an appointment at Vibe Dental Group in Pulaski, Tennessee. Let Dr. Shannon and Dr. West help you save your natural smile with expert root canal therapy in Pulaski. Root canal therapy can relieve symptoms and restore full function in one or two visits.
