Everyone can identify with the anxiety that comes with learning that they will need a root canal. Many people immediately associate root canals with “painful surgery” and a lengthy recovery period. The truth is that most people can get root canals without needing surgery. Additionally, receiving a modern root canal is comparable to a regular filling. Our skilled dentists, Drs. Bell, Hornsby, Spaeth, Biede, and Hiremath can identify whether there has been nerve damage in the tooth if you suffer tooth discomfort. Visit Dental Excellence to determine if root canal therapy in Tucson, Arizona is the best option for you.

What is a Root Canal?

The endodontic procedure called a root canal can repair a tooth with severe decay or infection. It is one of the most frequent dental procedures. Natural teeth can be preserved with this straightforward procedure, negating the need for dental implants or bridges. 

Three layers make up a tooth: the enamel, the dentin underneath it, and the pulp, the softest layer. The natural cavity in the tooth’s middle is referred to as a “root canal.” The pulp is located in the center of your tooth. The root canal contains the tooth’s nerve, and after the tooth has broken through the gums, the nerve is no longer essential to the tooth’s health and function. A group of blood vessels within the pulp supports the development of the tooth’s enamel. Trauma to the tooth, severe decay, chips and cracks, or frequent dental operations can all lead to pulp infection. 

Why do I Need a Root Canal?

You can clean the enamel on the outside of your teeth by brushing twice daily and flossing once a day, but you can’t clean the tooth interior. The body’s toughest material, the enamel of the teeth, comes in frequent contact with bacteria and acids from food and beverages.

As a result, the enamel can erode and eventually become frail enough for plaque to enter the tooth’s interior. Bacteria enter the tooth’s pulp via the tough outer layers due to trauma or dental decay, infecting the tissue. This infection may lead to a tooth abscess or spread to the gums and supporting bone around the teeth. As a result, you may need a root canal.

What are the Symptoms That I Need a Root Canal?

The following symptoms may occur when the interior tooth pulp becomes damaged due to an accident, inflammation, or infection.

• Prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold
• A painful toothache
• Teeth discoloration
• Discomfort or enlargement of the gum tissue around the teeth
• Ongoing bumps on the gum
• Abscess is present
• Severe jaw pain
• Swelling on the face and neck

Root Canal Process

If you exhibit any of these symptoms, we’ll probably suggest a non-surgical root canal to get rid of the infected pulp. Although we will numb the area with a local anesthetic before treatment, there is frequently little to no pain because the infectious process can damage or destroy the nerve. The actual root canal therapy is no more painful than getting a “filling” or restoration.

To establish the form of the root canal and identify any other indications of infection in the surrounding area, we will first take an x-ray of the tooth. We create a small hole through which we can carefully remove the infected pulp. To ensure that we eliminate all traces of infection, we wash out the treated area. After we fully clean out the root canal, we fill the area with a rubber-like substance and seal the tooth with a composite material.

Non-Surgical Root Canals in Tucson, AZ

We are aware that many patients are wary of getting a root canal, but we can ensure our patients have an effective and pleasant experience. Call us now to schedule a consultation on tooth treatment and infection prevention for your mouth.