Compassionate Family Dentists Serving Morris & Somerset County
One of the most feared dental procedures a person can undergo is a root canal. While these procedures were notoriously painful in the past, anesthetics have come a long way over the years and there is no longer anything to be afraid of. If you need a root canal, it is important that you consult with an experienced dentist who can make sure you are at ease throughout the process. Dental Associates of Basking Ridge has decades of experience assisting patients with their dental problems. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canals are tiny passageways that branch off from beneath the top of the tooth, coursing their way vertically downward, until they reach the tip of the root. All teeth have between one and four root canals. Many tooth problems involve infections that spread to the pulp, which is the inner chamber of the tooth containing blood vessels, nerves and other tissues. When the infection becomes worse, it can begin affecting the roots. A traumatic injury to a tooth can also compromise the pulp, leading to similar problems. A diseased inner tooth brings a host of problems including pain and sensitivity as the first indications of a problem. However, a spreading infection can cause small pockets of pus to develop, which can lead to an abscess.
Root canal therapy is a remarkable treatment with a very high rate of success and involves removing the diseased tissue, halting the spread of infection and restoring the healthy portion of the tooth. In fact, root canal therapy is designed to save a problem tooth. Before the procedure was developed and gained acceptance, the only alternative for treating a diseased tooth was extraction.
The Root Canal Procedure
Root canal therapy usually entails one to three visits. During the first visit, a small hole is drilled through the top of the tooth and into the inner chamber. Diseased tissue is removed, the inner chamber cleansed and disinfected, and the tiny canals are reshaped. The cleansed chamber and canals are filled with elastic material and medication designed to prevent infection. If necessary, the drilled hole is temporarily filled until a permanent seal is made with a crown. Most patients who have root canal experience little or no discomfort or pain, and enjoy a restored tooth that can last almost as long as its healthy original.
Contact Dental Associates of Basking Ridge
If you need an experienced team of dental professionals who can successfully guide you through the root canal therapy process, call Dental Associates of Basking Ridge. Our office is comprised of knowledgeable dentists, hygienists, and staff that work together to bring the best possible dental experience and treatment to our patients. For a dental team you can count on during your root canal therapy, contact Dental Associates of Basking Ridge today to schedule an appointment.
