Teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but sometimes they become damaged (chipped, fractured, broken), or infected, but that is no reason to give up on them. With today’s dental materials, instruments, and technology, there are many ways you can repair or save a tooth. It is always better to save a tooth, or as much healthy tooth structure as you can, rather than to extract your natural tooth and cause an imbalance in your oral cavity. So, if you are experiencing dental problems, don’t stop rooting for your teeth.
Root Canals
One way to save a tooth that has become compromised is with a root canal. Root canals can be used to restore teeth that are compromised due to:
- Pulpal inflammation
- Tooth infection
- Tooth abscess
- Excessive decay
A root canal is similar to–and not any more uncomfortable than–a tooth filling, but with a few extra steps.
How Root Canals Are Performed
Root canals consist of the following steps:
- Your dentist will make a tiny entry hole in your compromised tooth.
- From this hole the infected pulp and tooth decay will be gently removed.
- The pulpal chamber and root canal will be cleaned and disinfected, then filled with a biocompatible rubber-like material called gutta percha.
- The entry hole is then closed with a dental filling.
- Finally, the tooth will be crowned if your dentist feels the extra protection and support is necessary.
