A root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to save a damaged or infected tooth by removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth to prevent further damage. It is commonly performed at Treehouse Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry of Highland, Utah, by Drs. William Collins and Beau Seager.
How do I know if I need root canal therapy?
Endodontic or root canal treatment is commonly performed at our office. It is a way of saving a tooth and eliminating the need to remove and replace it. There are a few symptoms and complications that may indicate the need for root canal therapy, including:
- Severe toothache or pain
- Sensitivity to both hot and cold temperatures
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Swelling and tenderness in the gums
What are the six essential steps involved in endodontic therapy?
- Initial diagnosis and examination. The procedure begins with a very thorough examination of the tooth. The dentist may take X-rays to assess the overall extent of the infection or damage and to identify any decay or abscess. This step ensures an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Anesthesia. Once the problem area is identified, local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected natural tooth and the surrounding tissues, ensuring the patient remains comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Access opening. To reach the pulp chamber and root canals, the dentist makes a tiny hole in the natural tooth structure’s crown. The infected tissue can be precisely cleaned and removed in this step.
- Cleaning and shaping. The dentist cleans the root canals, forms them, and extracts the infected pulp using specific tools used by our experienced staff to make sure they are ready for filling. Antibacterial solutions may also be used to disinfect the area.
- Filling the canals. A biocompatible substance, usually gutta-percha, is poured into the root canals after they have been cleaned and shaped in order to seal them and stop germs from returning. Until the tooth can be completely healed, the access opening is temporarily sealed.
- Final restoration. The final step involves placing a crown or permanent filling to restore the tooth’s structure and functionality. This ensures the tooth is protected and can function like a natural tooth again.
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Who can I reach to learn more about endodontic therapy?
Root canal treatment, or endodontic therapy, is an effective way of saving a tooth that might otherwise need extraction, helping to maintain a healthy and balanced smile. If you suspect endodontic treatment might be required for one or more teeth in your smile, we invite you to schedule an upcoming and initial consultation visit with the team at Treehouse Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to learn more. Call (801) 756-2273 to request a visit at our clinic, located at 11055 Alpine Highway, Ste 1, and serving new patients and families in the community of Highland, Utah.