A root canal is a procedure to save a tooth that may be infected or badly decayed, protecting you from pain and preserving your smile. When the inside of the tooth is infected, it can cause significant pain. At Greater Dental Health, the diseased tissue is removed from the tooth during a root canal, and the inside is cleaned and sealed to prevent further damage. Then we’ll seal the tooth with a dental crown to prevent further damage and restore its function so you can bite, chew and speak normally again!

What Are the Signs That You Need a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure that repairs a tooth that has been infected or decayed. If you have an infected tooth, you may experience pain when you chew food or use your tooth for chewing. This discomfort may be mild initially but worsen over time without treatment. You may also feel pressure in your mouth or notice that your teeth are more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Additionally, you may notice visible signs of infection, such as darkening of the tooth color or swelling in the gums surrounding the tooth. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should visit your dentist immediately for a diagnosis.

The Procedure for Root Canal

During treatment, the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area surrounding the tooth so that patients don’t feel any pain during the procedure. Next, the dentist will open the tooth to access the pulp chamber and root canals. The dentist will remove the infected or damaged nerve tissue and clean the inside of the tooth to prepare it for filling. Finally, the tooth is filled with a rubbery material called gutta percha before being sealed with a permanent filling or dental crown. Patients should schedule a follow-up appointment a few weeks after the procedure to check their healing progress and ensure the treated tooth isn’t causing any problems. If left untreated, an infected tooth can lead to more severe problems, including abscess formation and tooth loss. A root canal is a safe and effective procedure that can alleviate toothaches and discomfort and restore oral health.

If you need a root canal, you must visit our dentist immediately. The earlier you receive this necessary procedure, the more likely you are to be able to save your tooth. Contact Greater Dental Health at 5210 Town Center Blvd Suite 310, Floor 2, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, or call (470) 508-0044 to schedule your consultation!