Root Canal

What is a root canal?

When a tooth becomes infected or badly decayed, it often needs a root canal to prevent the need for extraction.

Pulp -- soft tissue made up of tiny blood vessels and nerve fibers -- fills the inside of your tooth. A root canal removes the nerve and pulp from the inside of the tooth, then Dr. Mannan cleans and seals the inside of the tooth to protect it from future damage.

What causes an infected tooth?

A tooth’s pulp can become inflamed, infected, or irritated for numerous reasons, including:

• Large fillings
• Cracks or chips
• Trauma to the tooth
• Deep decay
• Repeated dental procedures

Damaged pulps require extraction. If left untreated, the infection can spread, and an abscess -- a puss-filled pocket indicative of an extensive infection -- can develop.

How do I know if I need a root canal?

Not all tooth pain is the same. You may need a root canal if you experience:

• Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold
• Darkening of the tooth
• A small bump on the gum   
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums   
• Tooth pain if pressure is applied or while eating

What happens during a root canal?

Root canals have a reputation for being scary and painful, but they often come with only minor discomfort.

During your appointment, Dr. Nabila Mannan uses local anesthetics to reduce discomfort and eliminate any anxiety associated with the procedure.

Once the anesthesia takes effect, Dr. Mannan drills into the tooth to create an opening to access the pulp. She removes the infected tissue, cleans the area, and seals it with a dental filling.

After your root canal, Dr. Mannan may recommend covering the tooth with a crown to improve the tooth’s appearance and add additional protection.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, call Rainbow Dental, PC or schedule your appointment online today.