Root Canal Treatment Framingham MA
In brief, a root canal treatment or endodontic therapy is a safe and effective treatment for teeth that have an infected or inflamed pulp. During the treatment, the pulp and the nerve are removed. The tooth is then cleaned and sealed with a dental crown. Many patients undergo root canal procedures and find that the process is relatively pain-free. Learn more below and contact us today.
Understanding the Root Canal
While the term root canal on its own can be used to refer to the dental procedure, it also refers to the inner passage of a tooth between the crown and the tooth roots. Inside this canal is the pulp, a soft tissue that nourishes the tooth as well as providing moisture to the surrounding material. In short, the pulp contains blood vessels and nerves. Removing the pulp, vessels, and nerves do not affect the tooth’s health or function. Hence, why infection is best treated with a root canal treatment.
Treatment
When a tooth has a deep cavity, is cracked or chipped, bacteria can enter the pulp. Left untreated, infection and a tooth abscess are likely to occur. An abscess is a pocket filled with pus formed at the end of the tooth’s root. This infection or tooth abscess can lead to severe pain and tooth loss.
Tooth pulp infection risk factors include:
- Severe tooth decay
- Cracks or chips in the teeth
- Trauma to the tooth
- Large fillings
- Extensive dental procedures
Signs that show you may be having root canal damage include toothache or tooth pain, a hole in your tooth, temperature sensitivity, gum tenderness or swelling. If your tooth pain is caused by an infection in the tooth pulp or serious decay, your dentist may recommend a root canal treatment.
Root Canal Procedure
The reatment involves the removal of the infected tooth pulp. After the procedure is done, the canal is filled and a dental crown is used to seal the tooth. Usually, the inflamed tissue around the tooth will heal naturally. Local anesthetics and dental advances allow for little to no pain. In fact, it could be even more painful to live with a decayed tooth than not having the procedure done at all.
Learn More
Overall, the treatment is generally successful. Studies have shown that in about 9 out of 10 cases, a tooth that has undergone the treatment can survive for up to 10 years. Maintain good dental hygiene to protect your newly restored tooth and prevent new infections from forming. Additionally, visit Comfort Dental Framingham for exams and cleanings. These preventive dental procedures detect issues early on and maintain healthy teeth and gums. Learn more by scheduling a consultation. Call (508) 276-6640 or book online here. New patients are accepted and most insurances are accepted.
