Root canal therapy is an endodontic procedure aimed at saving and restoring a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp tissue from the tooth’s interior, cleaning, disinfecting and shaping the root canals and then filling and sealing them to prevent further infection.
Why Root Canal Therapy?
- Preserves the natural tooth
- Relieves pain and discomfort associated with dental infection
- Prevents the spread of infection to neighboring teeth
- Restores normal chewing and biting function
The Procedure
- Initial Examination: Dr. Nick Bussa or Dr. Keith Schulhof will conduct a thorough examination, including X-rays, to assess the extent of damage and determine if root canal therapy is necessary.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure a pain-free experience during the procedure.
- Pulp Removal: The infected or damaged pulp tissue is carefully removed from the tooth’s interior using specialized instruments.
- Cleaning and Shaping: The root canals are meticulously cleaned, disinfected and shaped to prepare them for filling.
- Filling and Sealing: Once the root canals are prepared, they are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha and sealed to prevent bacteria from re-entering.
- Restoration: After the root canal therapy, a crown or filling may be placed on the tooth to restore its strength, function and aesthetics.
Schedule With Us
Root canal therapy St. Louis Park, Minnesota, at Jain Dental offers a solution to alleviate pain, preserve natural teeth and promote oral health. Contact our dentists and team at 952-926-3392 to schedule an appointment and restore your dental health today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is root canal therapy painful?
With modern techniques and anesthesia, root canal therapy is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a standard filling.
How long does a root canal procedure take?
The duration of a root canal procedure depends on various factors, such as the tooth’s location and the extent of the infection. Generally, it can be completed in one to two appointments.
Will I need to take special care of my tooth after root canal therapy?
You may need to avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on the treated tooth until it is fully restored with a crown or filling. Otherwise, regular oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing are recommended.