In our Kennett Square dental office, we use root canals and crowns to save teeth that have become infected or injured. While root canals are typically associated with a tooth that has become severely infected and is sore, they are also performed when a root has become damaged due to dental trauma. Understandably, when a tooth is damaged in a car accident, sporting accident, or workplace injury, the exterior of the tooth will show the damage but the interior (roots) may be injured as well. This is one reason that we take x-rays when a dental trauma has occurred. We need to see what is happening inside of the tooth so that we can take it into consideration and address it during the course of the treatment.
After examining your tooth and determining the best course of treatment, we will numb the area. Next, a small hole will be created in the tooth so that we can remove the infected portion of it. If your root canal is not to remove an infection, but to smooth out the root, we can do that as well. The key is to visit an experienced dentist that knows how to access the interior of the tooth with minimal disruption to it. Once done, we will seal up the hole with a rubber-like substance. This will prevent anything from entering the tooth and at times we will recommend a course of antibiotics as a precautionary measure. Next, we will begin the process of restoring the tooth.
Before a crown can be placed, the tooth must be prepared. This is done by removing a portion of the enamel from around the tooth so that when the cap (crown) is placed, it does not disturb the surrounding teeth. To prevent any unnecessary discomfort, our Kennett Square dentist office will provide you with medication and numb the area first. Afterwards, you may feel some discomfort and sensitivity. This can typically be controlled with ibuprofen. Since it takes time for the dental lab to create a crown, we will place a temporary crown around the tooth to prevent anything from touching it. This is secured in place using a removable, water-based glue, so it is important to be careful with what you eat and how you eat to prevent it from slipping out of place. Once the permanent crown is ready, you will come back in for it to be bonded in place. You will then be able to eat like normal.
The process of root canals and crowns is easier and more comfortable than ever before. Still, this is a major procedure that changes the tooth. Keeping that in mind, you should prepare to experience some level of irritation and take ibuprofen to feel better. You can also use a cold compress to reduce any swelling. You will want to be careful with what you eat for a few days while your teeth are getting used to the crown. For example, you may not want to eat something that requires biting down with excessive force. This, however, is only temporary, and you will be back to normal in short order.
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic therapy, is one of the most common dental procedures performed, but it’s certainly not one of the most enjoyable. It’s unpleasant to think about having an infected tooth removed and some of your jawbone along with it. To make things worse, it can be difficult to know if…
When you are experiencing pain due to the inflammation or infection of the tooth pulp, the dentist will usually recommend a root canal treatment. It is an effective treatment to eliminate pain, save the tooth and restore functionality. At the dental office, the dentist will do their best to ensure a pain-free treatment and keep…
A root canal is a dental procedure that can save an infected, damaged or severely decayed tooth from becoming lost. Root canal therapy is often necessary when other treatment options are not an option. It is important to know the signs that a root canal is necessary to ensure the long-term health of the tooth. When…
Endodontic procedures include every treatment involving the inner tissues of the teeth, otherwise known as the pulp or nerve. The word “endodontic” is derived from two stems: “endo,” meaning inside, and “odont,” meaning tooth. Every dentist receives training on the diagnosis of endodontic procedures, but some teeth can be particularly complicated to diagnose and treat.…
A kid-friendly dentist treats oral health concerns in children. However, an equally important part of their job is to work with parents to improve their child’s oral hygiene at home. This is because the majority of oral care takes place away from the office, so parents knowing how to help their child maintain a beautiful…
A dental implants restoration can replace a missing tooth that falls out naturally, gets knocked out or is extracted. A dental implant restoration is often recommended after tooth extraction, as it prevents bone loss from occurring and offers cosmetic and functional benefits. There are several ways to replace a missing tooth after an extraction, including with…