Root Canal, or endodontics, is the process of removing the nerves from the roots of a tooth. A root canal is often necessary to save an infected tooth. If an infected tooth is left alone for a long period of time, an abscess can form. An abscess will show up on an x-ray as a dark spot below the apex of the root. This is actually bone loss in the jaw. It is very important to catch this problem before it deteriorates too far.

The first step of the procedure is to anesthetize the effected area. The next step is to open an access point through the top, or biting surface of the tooth. The doctor will then determine a working length of each canal. Each canal is then cleaned and shaped in preparation for the filling material. Once each canal is prepared, it is filled with an inert material called gutta percha. The canals are then sealed. The tooth is now ready for a restoration, which is usually a crown. This entire procedure is often completed in two visits.

Why do I need a root canal? There are a number of reasons why one of your teeth may need a root canal. These include but are not limited to, a very deep cavity that extends into the nerve, a trauma to the tooth that exposes the nerve, or a crack in the tooth that extends into the nerve of the tooth.

Signs and symptoms. Moderate to severe lingering toothache pain when drinking hot or cold liquids or foods. Moderate to severe pain when biting on a tooth. Sensitivity to tapping or pressure on the tooth. Toothache that wakes you up in the middle of the night. A pimple on your gum that may release pus or blood. Radiating pain from one area of the mouth to another.

Care instruction for root canal therapy need to be followed to insure a success root canal. It is best to refrain from eating for at least 2 hours and until the anesthesia has worn off to prevent possibly injury to your soft tissue. This will also allow the temporary restorative material to harden.

You will most likely feel soreness in the area as well as pressure when you bite down. For this reason, you should avoid hard and chewy foods. Do not eat on the treated side of your mouth for at least 24 hours. The soreness should decrease within a week.

Take any antibiotic medication prescribed to you by the doctor as this will eliminate any remaining infection in the tooth.

If you notice any of the following symptoms please contact your cosmetic dentist. Increasing tenderness or swelling in the area surrounding the tooth. A reaction to the medication. Loss of the temporary filling material. Tooth fracture.

Invisalign is a great option to straighten your teeth without having to suffer the inconveniences that come from wearing braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear inserts that are custom made for you. With no metal wires or bands to irritate your mouth, the Invisalign aligners are almost invisible and work to slowly move your teeth into a straighter smile. By changing aligners every two weeks and with regular progress checks, patients often see results as soon as 6 months to 1 year. You can remove the aligners to eat, brush and floss and treatment won't disrupt your lifestyle. In fact, most people won't even notice you're in treatment.