SOFTOUCH - DENTALCenter For Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry Jennifer N. Nguyen, D.M.D, F.A.D.I.A |
3232 W. Lake Mary Blvd. #1400Lake Mary, FL. 32746 |
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(407)-323-1010 |
Root Canal (Endodontics)
Root Canal, or endodontics, is the process of removing the nerves from the roots of a tooth.
A root canal is often necessary to save an infected tooth.
If an infected tooth is left alone for a long period of time, an abscess can form.
An abscess will show up on an x-ray as a dark spot below the apex of the root.
This is actually bone loss in the jaw. It is very important to catch this problem before it deteriorates too far.
Process
The first step of the procedure is to anesthetize the effected area.
The next step is to open an access point through the top, or biting surface of the tooth.
The doctor will then determine a working length of each canal.
Each canal is then cleaned and shaped in preparation for the filling material.
Once each canal is prepared, it is filled with an inert material called gutta percha. The canals are then sealed.
The tooth is now ready for a restoration, which is usually a crown. This entire procedure is often completed in two visits.
Why do I need a root canal?
There are a number of reasons why one of your teeth may need a root canal. These include but are not limited to, a very deep cavity that extends into the nerve, a trauma to the tooth that exposes the nerve, or a crack in the tooth that extends into the nerve of the tooth.
Signs/Symptoms
-Moderate to severe lingering toothache pain when drinking hot or cold liquids or foods.
-Moderate to severe pain when biting on a tooth
-Sensitivity to tapping or pressure on the tooth
-Toothache that wakes you up in the middle of the night
-A pimple on your gum that may release pus or blood
-Radiating pain from one area of the mouth to another
Why do I need a crown after a root canal has done? Root canal therapy is performed to remove infection at the apex of the tooth, but it will leave the tooth vulnerable to fracture. Crown will protect the tooth a restore its function and esthetic.
At SofTouch-Dental, we can perform the root-canal therapy, the build-up and placing a crown in 1 visit, as opposed to multiple visits.
Crowns
As we get a little older, our teeth begin to change and are prone to decay. There are many possible reasons for this change in your smile. These reasons can include bruxism(teeth grinding), general decay, cracked fillings, root canals, and many others. If your tooth is beyond repair with a filling material, we may recommend that the best viable option to save the tooth is a full crown. The reasons for this type of restoration in a badly damaged tooth are durability, cosmetic appearance, and overall support of the chewing function.
Types of Crowns
If we decide that you are in need of a full crown, there are a few different options for the repair of your tooth. These options include a full porcelain crown, a porcelain fused to metal or gold crown, or a full gold crown. We will make the determination as to which of these options is the most appropriate for your situation. You can be comfortable in knowing that your new tooth will be virtually unnoticeable and will flawlessly complement the rest of your smile.
Procedure
The procedure begins with the removal of all decay in the tooth. Once we have removed the decay, we will take an impression of the tooth. This impression will be sent to our lab where your new restoration will be crafted. While this new tooth is created, we will provide you with a temporary restoration. Our temporary restorations will resemble your natural teeth so that you can continue with your daily life without worrying about a missing or incompatible tooth.
During your second visit to the office, we will proceed with the placement of your final restoration. This crown will be fitted comfortably into the mouth. We will make every effort to ensure that the new tooth feels exactly like one of your natural teeth. The final step in the process is to cement the crown into your mouth, leaving you with a beautifully restored smile.