Root Canal Treatment in Lodi, NJ
Dental Associates of Lodi provides root canal treatment in Lodi, NJ. Call 862-247-8030 to learn more and schedule your appointment.
A root canal can save a tooth that is too badly infected or damaged for other treatments. Many people are afraid of root canals, but modern methods have rendered this common procedure virtually pain-free. Here is what you should know.
What Is a Root Canal?
Each tooth contains one to four root canals filled with tooth pulp, a blend of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Depending on your needs, we can treat the canals in the tooth.
The first step is to thoroughly numb the tooth. Then, we create a tiny opening from the crown of the tooth down to the root chamber, exposing the root canals. We remove all of the infected or damaged pulp tissue and carefully clean each affected canal. We then use files to gently smooth and shape the canals. When every bit of damage or infection is gone, we add a post if needed to support the tooth, and then fill the canal(s) with a biocompatible sealing material. We then place a temporary filling to protect your tooth while a crown is created.
How Do I Know if I Need a Root Canal?
Occasionally, a tooth that needs a root canal shows no outward symptoms, but this is not common. In most cases, if you need a root canal, you will experience some or all of the following signs:
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Pain when chewing
- Gum tissue swelling
- Sensitivity in the tooth, especially to temperature changes
If you do not have the tooth treated, it will likely develop an abscess. This can cause further damage, bleeding, severe swelling, and intense pain. Over time, an untreated abscess can even cause a systemic infection in the body.
Is There Another Option?
Unfortunately, the only alternative to a root canal is extraction. An extracted tooth may be replaced with a dental bridge, implant, or partial denture. While these are helpful solutions for teeth that cannot be saved, nothing is as good as your own teeth. If the tooth can be saved with a root canal, it is highly recommended.
What Can I Expect?
Despite popular misconceptions, a root canal treatment causes no more discomfort than any other dental procedure. In fact, since a badly infected tooth can be excruciating, many people feel significantly better as soon as the treatment is done. Some mild discomfort is normal after the numbing medication wears off, which may require an over the counter pain reliever.
You may also feel some sensitivity in the tooth for a few days, and it is best not to chew directly on the tooth until you receive your crown. Most people are back to normal within three days. Of course, if you have any significant pain, you should call our office immediately.
If you need a root canal, call Dental Associates of Lodi today at 862-247-8030 to schedule your appointment.
