Root Canals

Root canal treatment is a dental procedure performed to save a severely infected or decayed tooth. It involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and then filling and sealing them to prevent further infection. This procedure is crucial because it alleviates severe tooth pain, stops the spread of infection to surrounding tissues, and allows patients to retain their natural teeth rather than opting for extraction.

By preserving the tooth structure and function, root canals restore oral health, improve chewing ability, and maintain the smile's aesthetic appearance, ultimately promoting long-term dental wellness and preventing the need for more extensive dental treatments. 

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal 

• Continuous or intense tooth pain, especially when chewing or applying pressure, can indicate an infection or inflammation deep within the tooth. 

• Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after removing the stimulus, may indicate that the nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth (pulp) are affected. 

• Swelling, tenderness, or a bump on the gums near the affected tooth can be signs of infection spreading from the tooth root. 

• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth, which may be accompanied by pain or sensitivity, suggests that the nerve tissue within the tooth may be damaged or dying. 

• If a tooth has a deep cavity or has undergone repeated dental procedures (such as multiple fillings), it may be more susceptible to infection or irreversible damage to the pulp. 

• A tooth that feels loose or unstable in its socket, mainly if it is not due to trauma or injury, may indicate an underlying infection affecting the supporting structures. Contact us today to learn more.

The Root Canal Procedure 

The process begins with a thorough examination and diagnosis by the dentist. X-rays are often taken to assess the extent of the infection and determine the root canals' shape and length. Local anesthesia is then administered to ensure the patient is comfortable throughout the procedure. Once the tooth and surrounding area are numb, our dentist in Sandy, UT, creates a small access opening in the tooth's crown to reach the pulp chamber and root canals. 

Next, specialized instruments called files are used to carefully remove the infected or diseased pulp tissue from the root canals. The canals are then cleaned, shaped, and disinfected using irrigation solutions to remove any remaining debris and bacteria. This meticulous cleaning process is crucial to ensure the infection is completely eradicated and prevent further complications. 

After the root canals have been thoroughly cleaned and shaped, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. This material, often combined with a sealer paste, is placed into the canals to seal them off and prevent bacteria from re-entering. The access opening in the tooth is then sealed with a temporary filling to protect the tooth while a permanent restoration, such as a dental crown, is prepared. 

In some cases, particularly if the tooth has extensive decay or is at risk of fracture, a dental crown may be recommended to provide additional strength and protection to the restored tooth. The crown is custom-made to match the shape and color of the natural tooth, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal. 

Post-procedure care typically involves taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed to manage any discomfort, which is usually mild and temporary. Patients are advised to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing regularly, and attend follow-up appointments with the dentist to monitor the healing process and ensure the tooth functions correctly. 

The root canal procedure is highly effective in saving infected or damaged teeth, relieving pain, and restoring oral health and function. It enables patients to retain their natural teeth and prevents the complications and costs associated with tooth extraction and replacement. With advancements in dental technology and techniques, root canals are now more comfortable and predictable, offering patients a reliable solution to preserve their smiles for years. 

The Benefits of Root Canals 

Pain Relief 

One of the primary benefits of a root canal in Sandy, UT, is the relief it provides from severe tooth pain caused by infection or inflammation of the tooth pulp. The procedure removes the damaged pulp, which contains nerves that transmit pain signals. Once the infected tissue is removed and the tooth is sealed, the pain usually subsides, allowing patients to regain comfort and function. 

Preservation of Natural Tooth 

Root canals aim to save the natural tooth rather than extracting it. This is advantageous because natural teeth help maintain jawbone structure and provide optimal chewing function. Preserving the natural tooth also prevents needing more extensive dental treatments, such as tooth replacement with implants or bridges.  

Aesthetic Benefits 

After a root canal, the tooth can be restored with a dental crown that matches the color and shape of the natural teeth. This restores the tooth's appearance and ensures it blends in seamlessly with the rest of the smile, enhancing overall aesthetics. 

Prevents Spread of Infection 

Root canal treatment removes the source of infection from the tooth, preventing it from spreading to neighboring teeth or into the jawbone. This helps prevent further complications and the need for more invasive treatments. 

Root canals effectively save severely infected or decayed teeth, alleviate pain, and preserve natural smiles. Visit Granite View Dental at 1030 E 11400 S, Suite 2, Sandy, UT 84094, or call (801) 255-2100 to book an appointment and take the first step toward a pain-free, healthy smile.