A root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is necessary when the pulp or nerve of a tooth becomes infected. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. If the pulp becomes infected, this can lead to an abscess. An abscess is a pus-filled sac that develops at the root of the tooth or in the space between the gums and teeth. If left untreated, the infection can cause tooth pain and eventual tooth loss.

How Is A Root Canal Treatment Performed?

A root canal is performed under local anesthesia. The dentist will access the tooth, remove the infected nerve tissue, and shape the canals inside the tooth. After that, the dentist will fill the canals with gutta-percha and seal the tooth with a dental filling.

Once the root canal treatment is complete, a dental crown will be fitted over the tooth. This will protect the tooth from further decay and restore its function. To fabricate the dental crown, we will take impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create your natural-looking crown. While it takes about two weeks for the fabrication of the crown, we will fit a temporary crown to protect the tooth in the meantime.

Benefits of A Root Canal Procedure.

Root canal treatment has a number of benefits. If your tooth is infected, the decay can slowly spread and can even reach the jawbone. This is the worst-case scenario. If this occurs, your dental professional may recommend a tooth extraction. However, a root canal treatment can save the tooth by treating the infected pulp. This treatment will also prevent the infection from spreading, so you avoid the need for tooth extraction.

When Should You Get A Root Canal?

If your teeth are infected or damaged, a root canal may be the best option for you. Root canal treatments are used to help remove infected or damaged pulp from a tooth. A root canal treatment helps to prevent future infections, tooth decay, and tooth pain.

If left untreated, a root canal infection can lead to more serious oral health problems. Root canal infections can even affect your overall health.

What Happens After A Root Canal Treatment?

After a root canal treatment, most patients experience little or no discomfort and are able to resume their normal activities right away. However, in some cases, patients may feel some tenderness or sensitivity. This is typically a normal side effect and can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medications.

What Happens If I Don’t Treat My Root Canal?

If you don’t treat your root canal, your tooth will continue to degenerate from the inside out. Your tooth’s roots are vital for holding the structural integrity of your tooth in place. When the tooth’s roots are damaged, the tooth will lose its firmness and become more brittle. Over time, the gums will begin to loosen and pull away, and your teeth will become looser and eventually fall out.

At Kusek Family & Implant Dentistry, we offer a full range of services, including cosmetic and implant dentistry in a relaxed dental environment. To learn more about our dental services or to schedule your consultation with one of our dentists, call us at 605-371-3443 or visit us at 4921 E. 26th St., Suite 1, Sioux Falls, SD 57110.