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What is a Root Canal?
Root Canal Treatment in Juno Beach FL - Root
canal treatment is the removal of the tooth's pulp which is a small,
thread-like tissue in the center of the tooth. Dr. Weinberg will remove
the damaged, diseased or dead pulp and clean, shape or fill the
remaining. This procedure seals off the root canal. Years ago, teeth
with damaged or diseased pulps were removed. Today, at the Center for Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry, we perform root canal treatments to save many teeth that would otherwise be lost.
The most common causes of pulp damage or death are:
- A deep cavity
- A cracked tooth
- An injury to a tooth, such as severe trauma to the tooth, either recent or in the past
If
the pulp becomes infected or worse - dead, and left untreated, pus can
build up at the root tip in the jawbone, forming an abscess. An abscess
can destroy the bone surrounding the tooth and cause severe pain.
How is a Root Canal Done?
Depending on the situation we can take several steps for root canal treatment. These steps are:
- First, an opening is made through the back of a front tooth or the crown of a molar or pre-molar.
- After
the diseased pulp is removed (know as a pulpectomy), the pulp chamber
and root canals are cleaned, enlarged and shaped in preparation for
being filled.
- If more
than one visit is necessary, a temporary filling is placed in the crown
opening to protect the tooth between dental visits.
- The
temporary filling is removed and the pulp chamber and root canal
permanently filled. A tapered, rubbery material called gutta-percha is
inserted into each of the canals and is often sealed into place with
cement. In certain cases a metal or plastic rod is placed in the canal
for structural support.
- In the final step, a crown
is usually placed over the tooth to restore its natural shape and
appearance. If the tooth is broken down to a great extent, a post may
be required to build it up prior to placing a crown.
How Long Will the Restored Tooth Last?
Your
treated and restored tooth/teeth can last a lifetime with proper care.
Good oral hygiene and frequent dentist visits are necessary because
tooth decay can still occur in treated teeth. There is no longer a pulp
keeping the tooth alive, so root-treated teeth can become brittle and
prone to fracture. Dr. Weinberg will take this into consideration when
deciding whether to crown or fill a tooth after root canal treatment.
Dr. Weinberg compares the new X-rays with those taken prior to
treatment in order to determine the success level of a root canal
treatment. This comparison will show whether bone continues to be lost
or is being regenerated.
With the proper steps taken afterward and follow-up visits you will be on your way to your new permanent smile. Please visit us today!
Dr. Brion Weinberg, D.D.S, PA.,Root Canals Juno Beach FL |