An endodontic treatment, popularly known as a “root canal”, involves the repair and salvage of an infected or decayed tooth. The procedure includes the removal of infected or desensitized nerves from the root canal of the tooth. Numerous patients have visited Houston Medical Center Dental to undergo root canal procedures and regain the use of their infected teeth.
The goal of a root canal procedure is to remove any abscess or infection surrounding the tooth pulp and root. These infections can lead to pain, swelling and severe discomfort when chewing. The root canal process removes the infected pulp while clearing and sealing the root canal. The process also seals off the area from future infections that can cause further damage.
The dentist starts the procedure by numbing the area with a local anesthetic. A rubber dam is placed around the affected tooth to prevent further infection through the patient’s saliva. The dentist drills an opening into the tooth to examine the damaged pulp, then files the opening to clean and shape the pulp chamber and root canal.
The filing process allows the dentist to create a cleaner, larger opening to view and seal the root canal. Once the root canal is properly shaped and free of infected tissue, the dentist fills and seals the opening. The root canal procedure enables dentists to save the entire tooth rather than extract it due to the damaged pulp.
Root canal procedures carry the reputation for being highly painful and uncomfortable. However, with the suitable anesthetic and proper techniques, the dentists at Houston Medical Center Dental can ensure that the patient feels as little discomfort as possible.
Contact Houston Medical Center Dental to learn how we can help with your root canal procedure.
