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Root canal treatment is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue found in the tooth's center, containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When the pulp becomes infected or injured due to tooth decay, trauma, or other factors, it can cause severe pain and potentially lead to an abscess or tooth loss if left untreated. At Ami Desai, root canal treatment aims to save the tooth by removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and sealing them to prevent further infection.

Signs You Need a Root Canal

Tooth Sensitivity

This is often a sign of early tooth decay or a tooth infection. If you notice pain whenever you eat or drink something hot or cold, make an appointment immediately.

Tooth Discoloration

Discoloration or darkening of the tooth, indicating that the inner pulp is damaged or infected. The tooth may appear gray, brown, or black compared to the surrounding teeth.

Severe Toothache

An infected tooth can be very painful. If tooth pain interferes with your daily life, it may be time to visit the dentist.

Gum Swelling and Tenderness

Swollen, tender, or inflamed gums around the affected tooth. The gums may appear red and swollen or develop a pimple-like bump called a gum boil.

Jaw Pain

If your tooth infection is severe, it can spread to the nearby lymph nodes and jaw. This can lead to severe pain in these areas.

The Procedure for Root Canal Treatment

The dentist will examine the tooth, assess the extent of the damage, and take X-rays to determine the shape and condition of the root canals. To ensure your comfort during the procedure, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth. The dentist creates an access point in the tooth to reach the pulp chamber and root canals. They carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp from the canals using specialized dental instruments. After removing the pulp, the dentist cleans the root canals thoroughly. They use specialized tools to remove any remaining infected tissue and shape the canals to facilitate filling and sealing. Once the canals are clean and dry, they are filled with a biocompatible gutta-percha material. The gutta-percha and a dental adhesive seal the canals to prevent reinfection.

In some cases, the dentist may delay the placement of the permanent filling and use a temporary filling to allow the infection to heal completely. After the root canal treatment, the tooth may require a restoration, such as a dental crown or filling, to restore its strength, function, and appearance. This step protects the treated tooth and ensures its long-term viability.

Root canal treatment saves a tooth that would otherwise need extraction. It relieves tooth pain, eliminates infection, and preserves your natural smile. To learn more about root canal treatment, visit Ami Desai at 440 E Calaveras Blvd, Milpitas, CA 95035, or call (408) 946-0777.