Root Canal Therapy
At Albert J. Sandler, DMD, we’re dedicated to preserving your natural smile, even in the face of tooth infection or damage. One of the most effective treatments for saving a compromised tooth is root canal therapy, a procedure designed to repair and protect a tooth affected by severe decay, infection, or injury. Our trusted Methuen MA dentist strives to make this treatment as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is a specialized treatment used to remove the infected or damaged pulp and nerves from inside your tooth. This inner pulp, while vital to tooth development, is no longer necessary once the tooth has fully emerged. If left untreated, an infected pulp can lead to significant pain, swelling, and even bone loss around the root of the tooth. In severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted entirely.
Our team believes in proactive care, which is why we emphasize regular dental checkups and x-rays. Often, infection can develop silently, without pain, and only a thorough evaluation by our Methuen MA dentist can detect it before it worsens.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Recognizing the symptoms of a potential tooth infection is key to timely treatment. You may need a root canal if you experience:
• Severe pain while chewing or biting.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers.
• Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth.
• Tooth discoloration or darkening.
• Pain that disrupts your sleep.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Root canal therapy typically involves the following steps:
1. Accessing the Tooth: Dr. Sandler will carefully create an opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp chamber.
2. Removing Infection: The pulp and nerves are removed, and the root canal is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
3. Temporary Protection: If your treatment is completed over multiple visits, a soothing medicament and temporary filling will protect the tooth until your next appointment.
4. Permanent Restoration: Once the infection is cleared, the tooth is sealed with a permanent filling. In most cases, a dental crown is placed to reinforce the tooth and prevent fractures.
The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy boasts a success rate exceeding 93%, allowing many treated teeth to last a lifetime. The combination of a strong dental crown and expert care by our Methuen MA dentist ensures your restored tooth looks and functions naturally.
Don’t let fear or misinformation prevent you from saving your smile. Schedule your consultation with Albert J. Sandler, DMD today to learn more about how root canal therapy can protect your oral health.
