Root Canals

Saving your Tooth with a Root Canal

A root canal is an extremely common dental procedure. In fact, it is performed nearly fourteen million times per year, making it one of the most common procedures in the dental industry. The reason it is so common is that a root canal can save your tooth from extraction, preserve your bite, and prevent infection from spreading in your body. In addition, by keeping a natural tooth intact, you won’t have to invest time and money on replacement teeth. Modern anesthesia, dental tools, and procedural techniques make root canal therapy a comfortable, conservative, and rewarding service.

Why would you need a root canal?

In the middle of your tooth exists nerve and pulp. If this part of your tooth becomes infected, damaged, or traumatized in any way, it can increase the risk for infection, disease, and decay. Damage to your tooth can be caused by injury, deep tooth decay, cracks or fractures, chipped teeth, or numerous dental procedures on one tooth. Some signs that you may need a root canal include a lot of swelling or bleeding, tooth sensitivity, or a lot of pain or pressure.

If you opt to receive a root canal, any pain, swelling, and pressure in your tooth should be relieved.

Some additional signs and symptoms include:

  • Pain in your tooth when chewing.
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold food/beverage. This sensitivity typically does not subside easily.
  • Tooth discoloration.
  • Swollen gums.
  • Pimples appearing on your gums.

What does a root canal involve?

Dr. Ginn will remove the damaged pulp from within your tooth’s canal, then replace it with a man-made material. The tooth will no longer have a blood supply, so it will not be alive. However, it will be strong and functional.

Unfortunately, root canals have a bad reputation for being unbearably painful. While this reputation exists, it is not true at all. Most patients who undergo the procedure report that the procedure was no more painful than when they’ve had fillings replaced. The intent of the procedure is to eliminate the pain the patient is already experiencing from their damaged tooth and to restore their mouth to a healthy state.

What happens after my root canal procedure?

After your procedure is complete, Dr. Ginn may place a dental crown to help strengthen the area. Additionally, you will need to schedule a time to receive a restoration to the area. You and Dr. Ginn will work together to discuss, and come to a decision about what option is best for you. It is rare that complications occur post-procedure. However, if you do experience complications you should contact Dr. Ginn right away.

Call our dental office in Washington Court House today to schedule your root canal consultation.

Dr. Ginn cares for patients from Jeffersonville, New Holland, Sabina, and Greenfield with comprehensive cosmetic dental services and general dental services.

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