Eastwood Dental Office performs root canals in Syracuse, NY. In the past, if you had a tooth with a diseased nerve, you'd probably lose that tooth. Today, with a special dental procedure called root canal treatment, you may save that tooth.
Inside each tooth is the pulp, which contains the nerve.
When a tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, bacteria can enter the pulp. Germs can cause an infection inside the tooth. Left without treatment, pus builds up at the root tip in the jawbone, forming a "pus-pocket" called an abscess. An abscess can cause the pulp tissue to die. When the infected pulp is not removed, pain and swelling can result. Certain byproducts of the infection can injure your jawbones and your overall health. Without treatment, your tooth may have to be removed.
Treatment often involves from one to three visits. During treatment, Dr. Laura or an endodontist (a dentist who specializes in root canals) removes the diseased pulp. Next the pulp chamber and root canal(s) of the tooth are cleaned and sealed. Teeth that have endodontic treatment always need a crown placed. The crown strengthens the remaining structure and prevents it from fracturing. Then, as long as you to continue to care for your teeth and gums with regular brushing, flossing, and checkups, your restored tooth can last several years
Most of the time a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort, involving one to three visits. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile!
Marilyn