Is your smile suffering because of an infected or damaged tooth? Whether because of an oral injury to the tooth, a deep cavity, a crack in the tooth or having several dental treatments done on a tooth, damage to the tooth roots can occur, requiring the help of a root canal to save the tooth.
Saving the tooth via a root canal is accomplished by cleaning the tooth root’s canals. Let’s look at how this is done:
1- X-rays will help our dentist determine exactly where the damaged tooth roots are located.
2- You will receive a local anesthetic to numb the area, similar to having a dental filling placed.
3- An opening will be made that exposes the tooth pulp infected areas.
4- The decay will be removed thoroughly.
5- The area will be cleaned and disinfected.
6- Gutta-percha, a rubbery like material, will fill in the area.
7- The root will be sealed with cement.
To care for your tooth after a root canal, avoid chewing on hard foods like ice. Brush and floss every day, and keep all six-month dental cleanings.
If you have a damaged tooth, it might benefit from a root canal treatment. For more information, and for an evaluation with our dentist, Dr. Vinh T. Pham, please call 408-378-8500. Our Kirkwood Dental team in Campbell, California is happy to help you with all of your oral care needs!