A root canal procedure limits the infection and keeps it from destroying the tooth. During the root canal treatment procedure, the dentist removes the inflamed or infected tissue, carefully cleans, disinfects, and shapes the root canal space inside the tooth, and then fills and seals this space.
It may take one or more appointments to complete the procedure. A protective restoration should be placed after root canal treatment has been completed in order to restore the tooth to function and help prevent tooth fracture.
At Kneib Dentistry, we think of a root canal as washing the invasive bacteria out of the root, filling it with a biocompatible material that soothes the area, then sealing it back up again. Top it off with a solid filling or a crown, and you're as good as new. That means you get to keep your tooth. And that's a good thing.
Many people flinch when their dentists tell them they need root canal therapy. While dentists are sympathetic to fears of pain, at Kneib Dentistry we also want you to know that root canal therapy has three purposes:
The root canal is actually a channel that runs from the root of the tooth, which connects to the bone, up to the top surface of the tooth. The canal contains blood vessels, nerves, and the complex cells that make up the living tissue inside the tooth. This lifeline inside the tooth is called the pulp.
When a tooth is decayed or cracked, bacteria can get to the pulp. The acid from the bacteria irritates the pulp and it becomes inflamed; it's the same process you watch when other parts of your body become infected. When the pulp tissue becomes inflamed, it's harder for blood to flow to the tissue, and the resulting pressure creates pain inside your tooth.
Root canal disease can manifest itself with a wide variety and combination of symptoms. Common symptoms of root canal disease include:
If you have any of these symptoms, it would be wise to visit us at Kneib Dentistry because you might have root canal disease or another dental problem. Some of these symptoms may also be attributable to decay, defective fillings, periodontal diseases, cracked teeth, or other tooth or bite-related problems. On other occasions, the symptoms may even be caused by disorders that are not related to the teeth.
For more information about how Kneib Dentistry can help you with your root canal problems, contact us and we will be happy to talk with you.
How long have you been a dentist? What are your credentials?
Dr. Robert Kneib trained with some of the world's most prominent cosmetic dental professionals and graduated from The University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. Over the past 30 years, he has established his reputation as one of the most trusted names in family and cosmetic dentistry.
What insurance do you accept?
All insurance is processed at our office. Kneib Dentistry participates in most major dental insurance programs. Contact us today with further questions.
What are your office hours?
Where are you located?
What do I do if I have a dental emergency?
Accidental Tooth Loss — Knowing the Proper First Aid
Monday | 7:30am - 5:00pm |
Tuesday | 7:30am - 5:00pm |
Wednesday | 7:30am - 5:00pm |
Thursday | 8:00am - 5:00pm |
Friday | 8:00am - 1:00pm | No Appointments |