Many people dread the thought of root canal therapy, which is understandable given all of the stories associated with the procedure throughout popular culture. But the truth is that those stories have been greatly exaggerated. In reality, getting a root canal is an important tool for saving a damaged and infected tooth. Dr. Clark Wright, a dentist in Venice, FL, offers cosmetic and general dentistry services for a range of aesthetic and oral health problems.
Root Canal Therapy in Venice, FL
Root canal therapy is used when the soft tissue inside of a tooth (known as the pulp) becomes inflamed or infected. Bacteria can enter the root canal as a result of deep tooth decay, or through a fracture or crack in the tooth. You'll need a dental exam to determine whether you need a root canal, but here are some of the most common signs and symptoms that a tooth has become infected:
- Pain/throbbing tooth
- Ongoing sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling
If you have any symptoms or pain that seems out of the ordinary, don't wait to see your dentist. If you have an infection, delaying treatment can lead to complications and put your oral health at risk.
If it turns out that you need a root canal, the procedure itself is fairly straightforward. The dentist will apply a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Once you're comfortably numb, the dentist will remove any bacteria and infected or inflamed nerve tissue. Once the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, the dentist will fill and seal and reinforce the tooth with bonding or a cosmetic crown. The entire procedure typically takes about 90 minutes.
Find a Dentist in Venice, FL
For more information about root canal therapy and restorative dental services, contact our office today by calling (941) 493-5923 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Wright today.