Root Canal

Root Canal Therapy: What Is It and Why Do I Need It?

For many patients, the root canal (endodontic therapy) is the most feared of all dental procedures. In reality, there is nothing to be afraid of because advances in techniques and technology have made root canal treatment a relatively pain-free procedure.

Dr. Tim’s Dental Clinic has extensive experience and training using these modern techniques and technologies and she will use them to make your root canal as comfortable as possible.

Your dentist may have suggested to you that dental root canal therapy was needed for a particular tooth. They may have briefly discussed some of the facts concerning the procedures involved in dental root canal therapy, but perhaps you would like some more information. At one time, a badly infected tooth, was doomed to be extracted. Today most of these teeth can be saved through a procedures utilized by Dr. Tim’s Dental Clinic

Root Canal vs Extraction

When it comes to determining which is the better solution, the question will become: root canal vs extraction. Most dentists agree that dental root canal therapy is a better option of the two, if possible.

This is because root canal therapy is designed to help a person save their tooth. In instances where dental root canal therapy can possibly save an infected tooth, dentists agree that it is safer, and less expensive in the long run then tooth extraction. Dr. Tim’s Dental Clinic on the pros and cons of root canal vs extractions.

How is a Root Canal Done?

The first step in a root canal is to remove decay from the dentin (the hard part of the tooth). Then, the infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth, including the root canals, is cleaned to eliminate the infection. After the tooth is decontaminated, the inside of the tooth and root canals are filled with a protective material that seals the tooth and protects it from future infection.

Why are Crowns Recommended following a Root Canal?

Following a root canal, a crown is generally recommended to protect the tooth from future damage. Because root canals require the removal of decayed tooth structure, the procedure weakens the tooth somewhat. A tooth is also more brittle after a root canal because the procedure stops the blood supply to the tooth leaving it without a source of moisture replenishment. Finally, a crown is recommended because it helps to more fully seal the tooth, preventing possible leaking and re-infection of the tooth.

How has Technology made Root Canal Treatment more Effective?

Recent innovations in dental technology have increased the comfort and success of root canal procedures. Dr. Tim’s Dental Clinic takes advantage of recent advances in mechanical instrumentation to make more accurate measurements of the shape and dimensions of the root canal being treated.

They also uses a computer controlled electric hand-piece that allows her to clean and shape the canals faster, more accurately, and more thoroughly than is possible with the hand files that many dentists still use. This technology means a shorter appointment, a more comfortable treatment, and a better outcome for her patients.