Root Canal

When a tooth becomes infected it is usually related to the nerves in the root of the tooth. The infected nerves need to be removed. If left untreated an infection can turn into an abscess, which is a much more serious problem that includes bone loss in the jaw. The area around the tooth is numbed with a local anesthetic to start the procedure. It is highly recommended that a tooth that has undergone a root canal is fitted with a crown to support the remaining tooth structure and return the tooth to full form and function. “Root Canal” is a term that dental patients do not like to hear, but the benefits of the procedure and advances in dental technology have made it a much more comfortable procedure. There may be some soreness following the procedure, but that is normal. Over the counter medication is usually enough to relieve any pain afterwards, but your dentist may prescribe medication. The procedure will also relieve you from pain caused by the infection allowing you to enjoy all the foods you love without any pain from heat, cold, or biting too hard.