When the nerve of a tooth becomes infected as a result of dental disease or trauma, Dr. Payne may recommend treatment with root canal therapy.
For years, root canals have been joked about and feared as painful or difficult procedures. Root canals can be as comfortable as a routine dental filling; the key is to perform treatment before serious infection or swelling occurs.
During a root canal procedure, a small opening is made in the crown of the tooth so that the infected nerve and tissues can be removed and the roots of the teeth can be disinfected and sealed.
Teeth that have had root canal therapy lose vitality, which makes the enamel more susceptible to cracks and breakage. Dr. Payne will restore your tooth with a dental crown after root canal treatment to help protect it from further damage.
Dr. Payne may recommend that a root canal specialist, or Endodontist, perform the root canal procedure. He will then work closely with the Endodontist to restore the tooth with a dental crown following root canal treatment.
Save Your Teeth…
A root canal is usually the recommended procedure to save a tooth that has become infected, rather than extraction.
By having root canal treatment, the tooth can remain in position and maintain its role in supporting the jaw bone structures, bite balance and proper chewing.
If the tooth is removed, the tooth will require replacement; options such as a bridge, or implant and crown are more costly procedures than a single root canal and crown.
Don't wait until you have a problem to schedule an appointment. Schedule a thorough examination with our dentist today!