A root canal procedure is the only way to eliminate dental infection and avoid the need to extract a tooth. We understand you may be nervous about this procedure, so we make our Knoxville, TN, office a soothing environment and offer anxiety-reduction options to help you relax. With his compassionate care, you can receive the treatment you need in order to protect your teeth and ensure lasting dental health. We use the latest restorative materials, such as IPS e.max®, to craft the dental crowns that complete the procedure.
OUR GENTLE ROOT CANAL PROCEDURE CAN SAVE YOUR TOOTH AND PROTECT YOUR ORAL HEALTH
WHY A ROOT CANAL PROCEDURE IS RECOMMENDED
A root canal procedure, also known as “endodontic treatment,” is typically recommended if you are experiencing a dental infection. This condition arises when decay reaches the pulp in the center of your tooth. Your dental nerves and blood vessels run from this central chamber of your tooth through your root canals, so an infection can spread quickly, affect your nerves, and cause significant discomfort. Often, pain will be more pronounced when you bite or eat cold foods. The pain could radiate or cause sharp, shooting sensations across your jaw. Other symptoms of a dental infection can include gum abscesses, bad breath, and dark stains inside your tooth. In some cases, however, dental infection does not cause any symptoms until it completely destroys your tooth. This is one reason that regular checkups are so important.
If we determine that you require a root canal procedure, we will take every measure to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
ROOT CANAL TREATMENT
- To begin the root canal procedure, the dentist will isolate your tooth and create a tiny access point.
- Through this opening, the dentist can remove the infected pulp and reshape the central chamber. The dentist will do the same for your root canals.
- The dentist will fill both areas with a soft filling made of a rubbery substance called gutta percha, and reshape the outside of your tooth, prepping it for a dental crown.
- To ensure the most comfortable fit and lifelike appearance, the dentist will take impressions of your tooth.
- Our partner lab will then fabricate your cap from IPS e.max. This special type of lithium disilicate is quite durable and, at the same time, offers a lifelike color and luminous sparkle.
- It will typically take one or two weeks for the lab to finish your crown. We will provide a temporary cap while you wait, and one of our dentists will attach the final restoration once it is performed.
THE BENEFITS OF A ROOT CANAL SURGERY
If you are suffering from a dental infection, you need to seek treatment as soon as possible. Oral bacteria multiply quickly. They can affect your other teeth, gum tissue, and even your jawbone.
Endodontic treatment is the only alternative to extraction. While tooth removal might seem simpler on the surface, it is far from ideal. After removing the tooth, we would then need to place a restoration, such as a traditional or implant-supported bridge. Ultimately, these treatments could cost more than root canal therapy and require more visits to our office.
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT
Get in touch with us right away if you are experiencing any symptoms of a dental infection. You can easily contact our office online or you can call (865) 539-6030 to speak to our team.
