A severely decayed or infected tooth can sometimes only be saved with root canal treatment. This type of procedure may be performed by some dentists, but others may refer patients to a specialist called an endodontist. This type of specialist focuses on restoring badly damaged teeth through root canal therapy.
The focus of root canal treatment is removing damaged or infected pulp from the tooth, which is located in its center. It can only be accessed by drilling or cutting into the tooth, and then the infection or decayed material is removed. The inside of the tooth is cleaned out, a filler is placed in the hollowed out area, and then a crown or cap is placed on the tooth to avoid further decay. This also restores the tooth’s function and appearance. Without root canal therapy, often the only alternative is to extract the tooth.
Root canal treatment has a reputation of being one of the most dreaded procedures in dentistry. The procedure has improved through the years, and another important aspect is the skill of the professional performing the root canal. This is where endodontists come into play, because they are specially trained and have a great deal of experience in root canal therapy. Endodontists go through an additional 2-3 years of special training and study, so they are highly qualified for even the most complicated cases. Anesthetic is used in nearly all root canals, so the treatment often ends up being similar to getting a regular filling. Minor pain may occur for a couple of days following treatment, but over-the-counter medications usually provide relief. In the end, when an endodontist has performed your root canal treatment, your tooth’s function will be restored after just a few days of recovery.
Contact our dental office in Central Falls Rhode Island if you need a root canal.
