Root Canal

Ithaca, NY Root Canal Treatment

If a dental patient has severe tooth pain that seems to come from the root of the tooth, chances are that it is caused by an infection. Root canal therapy is a procedure that is used to eliminate the infection and relieve the pain. According to the American Association of Endodontists, American dentists perform approximately 15 million root canals each year, which makes it one of the most common dental procedures. From the office of Northeast Family Dental in Ithaca, NY, learn more about root canals and why this treatment is beneficial.

The Purpose 

A root canal is a preferred alternative to extracting a tooth, which is why so many procedures are performed yearly. The ultimate purpose of this treatment is to save the patient’s original tooth, keeping it well-rooted, healthy and strong. When a tooth is extracted, the gums become vulnerable to decay, infection and loss of bone tissue. A root canal helps you avoid potentially expensive issues in the future.

Root Canal Procedure

A root canal is often completed in about two appointments. There are three main steps involved when getting this treatment:

1) The patient is sedated and the dentist uses special tools to access the tooth’s damaged tissue.

2) The Stamford dentist thoroughly cleans and disinfects the tooth, then fills it up with a substance called gutta-percha to protect it from future damage.

3) A crown is secured to the top of the tooth to reinforce and protect it. This is commonly done at a separate appointment.

Causes of Root Canal Problems

Root canal problems stem from infection and inflammation of the tooth's pulp tissue. One potential cause of infection is deep tooth decay. Untreated dental cavities eventually allow bacteria to work their way down to the center of the tooth, where they may infect the pulp tissue. Another path by which bacteria may come into contact with pulp is via chipped or cracked teeth. Any opening in the protective enamel coating has the potential to allow bacteria access to the tooth's pulp.

Trauma to the tooth — the kind that might result from a sports injury or automobile accident, for example — is also a major cause of pulp tissue damage. In this case, it's essential to seek treatment immediately, both to try and save the tooth, and to prevent future problems.

The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Root canals are advantageous over other dental solutions in a few important ways:

- With a root canal you avoid the discomfort and inconvenience of having a tooth pulled.

- A root canal allows you to keep your original tooth and avoid the expense of a tooth replacement, like a dental implant or bridgework.

- Root canals have a high rate of effectiveness, meaning that in the majority of cases the tooth fully heals and strengthens over time.

Your Best Solution 

A root canal could be the dental solution that you need to return your teeth to good health. 

If you think you may need a root canal, Call the Northeast Family Dental office 
in Ithaca, NY at (607) 257-0060 to schedule an appointment today!