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Root Canal Therapy

Root Canal Treatment

 

Endodontist Milwaukee. If the interior of the tooth, where the nerve and blood supply are located, becomes infected or traumatized, a Root Canal Therapy or procedure may be the only means of saving the tooth. Contrary to popular belief, modern Root Canal Therapy is painless and no more difficult than other common dental procedures. When needed, it is a very important procedure to have done. It also helps protect against future infection.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signs and symptoms for possible root canal therapy:

  •  An abscess (or pimple) on the gums.
  •  Sensitivity to hot and cold.
  •  Severe toothache pain.
  •  Sometimes no symptoms are present.
  •  Swelling and/or tenderness.

 

Reasons for root canal therapy:

  •  Decay has reached the tooth pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth).
  •  Infection or abscess have developed inside the tooth or at the root tip.
  •  Injury or trauma to the tooth.

What does root canal therapy involve?

A root canal procedure requires one or more appointments and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist (a root canal specialist).

While the tooth is numb, a rubber dam (a sheet of rubber) will be placed around the tooth to keep it dry and free of saliva. An access opening is made on top of the tooth and a series of root canal files are placed into the opening, one at a time, removing the pulp, nerve tissue, and bacteria. If tooth decay is present, it will also be removed with special dental instruments.

Once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed with either a permanent filling or, if additional appointments are needed, a temporary filling will be placed.

At the next appointment, usually a week later, the roots and the inside cavity of the tooth will be filled and sealed with special dental materials. A filling will be placed to cover the opening on top of the tooth. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown (cap) placed. This will protect the tooth and prevent it from breaking, and restore it to its full function.

After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed.

 

You will be given care instructions after each appointment. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your root canal treatment.

If you have missing, damaged, stained or broken teeth, or if you just want a brighter, more radiant smile, or if it is just time for your regular dental checkup, call American Dental Group 414-464-6300 today to schedule a private consultation, or fill out the form on the contact page.