A root canal is a dental procedure that is employed when there is an infection from the inside of a tooth. Although the procedure is commonly called a “root canal” it is not actually a procedure, the root canal is a part of a tooth. The root canal is that part of a tooth that contains the nerves and blood vessels. The actual procedure is endodontic therapy.
What is root canal treatment?
When your dentist removes the inside of the tooth, this procedure is called root canal therapy. The inside of the tooth is cleaned and shaped using specialist instruments; the tooth is then filled with a material somewhat akin to rubber which seals it. Once a root canal in Chicago has been completed the tooth is dead, there is no possibility of any further pain; the nerves have been removed and any infection has been eliminated.
When is a root canal needed?
The pulp inside the tooth is what carries the nerves and blood vessels, in the event the pulp is damaged through infection it cannot self-heal, the tissue dies. In the event of a deep cavity, a broken or cracked tooth or a filling has fallen out; bacteria can get into the tooth resulting in infection. The infection will worsen and the pulp will eventually be destroyed. The infection is usually on the tip of the tooth root however it can also get into the underlying jaw bone. The tooth will be extremely sensitive and the condition is often associated with throbbing pain.
Once a tooth has been subjected to a root canal in Chicago it will be somewhat more fragile, to protect the tooth the dentist will fit a crown. Until the procedure is completed it is wise to avoid biting down hard or chewing on the tooth. Once the procedure is completed there is no need to treat it any different than any other healthy tooth.
A root canal in Chicago is often the solution for a tooth that is infected. If you are suffering from continued pain and a tooth is sensitive to hot and cold you are invited to make an appointment with South Loop Dental Specialists
