Wide range of treatments
All the treatments to help you get your perfect smile
Root Canals
Root canals are a common treatment performed in Dr. Bowser's dentist office. It is a way to save the tooth from extraction once a nerve becomes infected. Although it is a more costly direction, other than extracting, it is cheaper than replacing it later, and you will get your tooth restored to the way it was before the damage started to occur.
Treatment for your root canal may result in more than one dental visit. Your dentist will perform the steps he/she feel necessary to save your tooth and make the end result last.
- The first step would be to numb your tooth for your own comfort. Then an opening is made through the crown of the tooth into the infected pulp chamber.
- Next, the infection is removed from the pulp chamber and the root canal, which would be the space inside the root. Each canal is cleaned out and shaped in order for it to be filled.
- Before the root canals are filled, your dentist may place medicine in the pulp chamber to make sure to get rid of all bacteria, and to be sure there isn't any trapped inside when the root canals are filled.
- Filling the root canals is the next process done. Usually the canals are filled with a rubber like material and cement to seal them.
- Your dentist will then often place a temporary filling in the tooth to prevent contamination of the root canals. If there was an infection and it has spred beyond the roots you may be prescribed medicine if your dentists feel that it is necessary. If you are prescribed medicine by your doctor, use only as directed. If you have any problems with the medicine you have been prescribed, please contact us!
- During the final step of treatment, you will return to your dentist for another appointment where you will get your temporary filling removed, your root canals will be checked again to make sure all is going well, and then a permanent crown or filling will be placed in your tooth to restore and stregnthen it, and improve the way it looks.
Common Questions
What happens if the pulp is injured?
The pulp in a tooth is made up of blood vessels and nerves. When the pulp becomes injured, inflamed, or infected, treatment may be needed. The most common causes for inflammation or infection of a tooth is when bacteria is able to enter the pulp, this would be for example, a cracked or chipped tooth, a deep cavity or filling, or other serious injury to the tooth.
Why should the pulp be removed?
If the pulp becomes damaged or infected and it is not removed, the tissues around the root of the tooth can also become infected, causing the patient pain and swelling. Some patients experience no pain, but the bacteria is still causing damage to the bone that holds the tooth to the jaw. If it is not treated right away it could result in loss of that tooth completely.
Removing a Tooth
When you get a tooth removed and it is not replaced, the teeth around that space may shift. This can make biting or chewing difficult for the patient and harder for them to clean their teeth, and the areas that are not well cleaned may easily get gum disease.
What Materials are Used for a Crown?
The materials that are used for crowns vary, depending on the location of the tooth needing a crown is, the material that your dentist feels is best for you, the amount of natural tooth that is left, and your preferances.
How Long will the Restored Tooth Last?
When a tooth is properly restored, a tooth with a root canal can last up to 20 plus years. On the other hand, like any other tooth, it can become decayed and fractured or the tissue around it can get gum disease if the proper hygiene is not performed every day. Daily cleanings and regular dental exams will keep your mouth healthy, whether you've had a root canal treatment or not.