Dentist Near Royal Oak, MI Discusses Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is a crucial treatment that helps to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected due to a deep cavity or a crack. At Ferndale Dental, our skilled dentist in Royal Oak, MI can answer all your questions about root canal therapy to prevent further infection and preserve your natural tooth. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp and nerves of the tooth, thoroughly cleaning the affected area, and sealing it to prevent future complications.
Why Is a Root Canal Necessary?
The pulp of the tooth contains nerves and blood vessels that help with the development of the tooth, but once the tooth has fully emerged, it can function without them. When bacteria reach the pulp due to decay or trauma, it can cause a painful infection. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding bone, resulting in swelling, intense discomfort, and the potential loss of the tooth. That's why root canal therapy is essential—it removes the infection and allows you to keep your natural tooth.
Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy
Certain symptoms indicate that a root canal may be necessary. If you notice any of the following, it’s important to visit our dentist in Royal Oak, MI for an evaluation:
• Severe tooth pain when chewing or applying pressure
• Persistent pain that wakes you up at night
• Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers long after exposure
• Tooth discoloration or darkening
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums around the affected tooth These signs suggest that the infection has reached the pulp of the tooth and that a root canal may be needed to save it.
What Does Root Canal Treatment Involve?
At our practice, our dentist in Royal Oak, MI will perform the root canal therapy in a few key steps. First, an opening is made in the tooth's crown to access the infected pulp chamber. The infected pulp is then removed, and the root canal is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate bacteria and debris. If the treatment requires multiple visits, a temporary filling is placed to protect the tooth in between appointments.
During your follow-up visit, the temporary filling is removed, and the canal is cleaned again to ensure all infection is gone. Our dentist in Royal Oak, MI will then seal the tooth with a permanent filling. In some cases, a crown may be placed over the tooth to provide additional protection and restore its full functionality.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy has a high success rate, allowing many teeth to be saved and function for a lifetime. Not only does the treatment eliminate pain and infection, but the crown or filling placed after the procedure ensures the tooth blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile. With proper care, no one will be able to tell that you’ve had a root canal.
If you're experiencing any symptoms of tooth infection or need more information about root canal therapy, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our dentist in Royal Oak, MI at Ferndale Dental. Our team is here to provide expert care and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.