What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that removes the infected pulp from inside a tooth’s root. The purpose of a root canal is to treat an infection deep inside a tooth. A tooth can become infected by cavities, cracked teeth, infected deep gum pockets, or another type of oral injury.
Why Is a Root Canal Performed?
A root canal in Salem, IL, is performed to save a tooth that has been damaged or infected. A root canal is the preferred method of saving a tooth rather than removing it. Teeth usually survive at least 10 years (if not longer) after having a root canal.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
If you notice any of the following, your dentist in Salem, IL, might recommend a root canal.
- Hot, cold, or any type of tooth sensitivity.
- Darkened gums or deep decay.
- Chipped or cracked teeth.
- Pimples on your gums.
- Pain when chewing or biting.
- Discolored tooth.
- Swollen gums.
- Loose teeth.
- Facial swelling.
- Abscess tooth.
- Bleeding gums.
How Is a Root Canal Performed?
The dentist will give you a local anesthetic applied to numb the area around the tooth. Next, the dentist will remove a small piece of your tooth to access and remove the infected pulp. The empty root canal is then cleaned and disinfected. The dentist will fill the root canal with a permanent material. Lastly, the tooth is permanently sealed with a crown.
The Benefits of Having a Root Canal
Having a root canal provides you with many benefits.
- It will alleviate your pain.
- It will get rid of your tooth sensitivity.
- It will prevent the infection from spreading.
- It will save your natural tooth.
- It will keep your teeth from shifting like they would if you had that tooth removed.
- It’s an almost pain-free procedure.
- The recovery time is minimal.
- It’s a cost-effective procedure compared to other options.
- Most insurance companies cover root canals.
- The crown over your root canal looks and functions just like your natural tooth.
How Long Do Root Canals Last?
After having a root canal, the crown will generally last about 20 years or so. It’s best practice to have a crown placed over a root canal. A crown helps keep your tooth from fracturing and decaying and helps it heal properly.
