A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infections or inflammation in the pulp (nerve) of a tooth. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected pulp, cleaning and shaping the root canals of the tooth, and filling the canals with a special material to prevent further infection.
Root canals are typically recommended for patients who have a tooth that has become infected or inflamed due to decay, trauma, or other factors. Common signs that a root canal may be needed include:
Root canals are typically performed by an endodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating problems with the pulp of the teeth. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth and may require one or more appointments depending on the severity of the infection.
After the root canal procedure, the tooth will be restored with a filling or crown to protect it from further damage or infection. With proper care, a tooth that has undergone a root canal can often last for many years or even a lifetime.
However, not all teeth with infections or inflammation require a root canal. In some cases, a tooth may be able to be treated with other methods such as a filling or crown. A dentist or endodontist can help determine the best course of treatment for each individual case. Contact our dental office in Hialeah, FL- LA Family Dentistry to know more about the procedure.