Understanding root canals in Mesa AZ
There are three parts to a tooth, at the very center is the pulp, the middle layer consists of dentin, and the hard outer shell is the enamel. If cavities or other damage allows infection to reach the tooth’s pulp, root canal therapy is the only way to save the natural tooth. Unfortunately, many people think that the procedure is worse than the pain the tooth is causing them. This is untrue, a root canal is a simple procedure, it only takes about an hour, and, when complete, patients are pleasantly surprised to discover the excruciating pain they were suffering prior to the procedure is gone.
THE ALTERNATIVE
The only alternative to a root canal is to extract the tooth. In order to restore the extracted tooth a bridge or dental implant might be recommended. A bridge requires preparing the teeth on each side of the gap for crowns and then a three-tooth unit would be placed. A dental implant does not rely on neighboring teeth for support, but does require a simple surgery to place a small titanium cylinder in the jawbone. After the bone has healed, the implant would be topped with an artificial tooth to complete the restoration. If the tooth is not replaced, your other teeth tend to lean into the gap; you can end up with crooked teeth with gaps between them. The gaps can then trap plaque that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
THE ROOT CANAL PROCEDURE
Once your tooth and gums are numb, Dr. Fritz will make a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp. He will then remove all of the pulp and clean the chamber. The tooth will be disinfected, the chamber will be filled and sealed, and the access hole filled. Because of the local anesthetic, you will not experience any pain during the procedure. Any discomfort you may experience after the anesthetic wears off can normally be controlled with non-aspirin over-the-counter pain medicine.
Once the tooth has settled from the root canal therapy, you will have a second appointment; Dr. Fritz will prepare the tooth and place a temporary crown. Once the dental lab fabricates the permanent crown, he can complete the restoration process and your tooth will be beautiful and functional.
Mesa AZ residents, if you have a tooth that is sensitive to hot or cold, or it is causing you pain, call New Health Dental at (877) 943-3703, and schedule an appointment. You tooth will only get better with proper dental care. If the prospect of root canal therapy makes you nervous, sedation is available.
