Root Canal There are instances when a tooth becomes infected but does not need to be removed. Preserving the natural tooth as much as possible is always the preferred option because it helps you retain the most function and gives you a natural look, even with a filling material. There are some signs that you would need a root canal and you can always call New Life Dental about any symptoms you experience. We provide root canals and will give you detailed instructions for a successful recovery.Signs of Needing a Root CanalA root canal is needed when the dental pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth, becomes infected. Symptoms of a dental pulp infection include pain when you chew, pimples, or swelling in the gums, tooth chips or cracks, lingering hot and cold sensitivity, gum discoloration, and deep decay. Also, let us know if you ever experience a dental injury, as this can cause damage and infection in the pulp. Root Canal ProcedureBefore your root canal procedure, you will meet with our dentist for a consultation. During this appointment, we will get dental x-rays and examine the underlying condition of your tooth and jaw. We will also explain the procedure in detail. On the day of the root canal, you will receive a local anesthetic before our dentist places a dental dam over the tooth. This helps to isolate the tooth during surgery in order to keep saliva and debris out of the area. Our dentist will create a small opening in the crown (biting surface) of your tooth. Our dentist will use specialized instruments to clear out the dental pulp through this opening. They will then shape the cavity for the filling material. Our dentist will fill the cavity, usually with a substance called gutta-percha. This is a rubbery material that is biocompatible, meaning your body will not fight it. We also use an adhesive dental cement to keep the gutta-percha secure. Additionally, you will receive a temporary filling to protect the tooth while it heals. After you have healed, we can place a permanent restoration. Recovery and RestorationWe will recommend that you avoid certain types of food while your tooth heals from the root canal. For instance, hard or sticky foods can damage the temporary filling. Additionally, they may be difficult to chew while you heal. Not every tooth will require a restoration following a root canal. However, if it is a tooth used in chewing, then a crown is definitely necessary. There are several types of dental crowns we can place. Porcelain, ceramic, and composite resin crowns are all the same color as a natural tooth. They do have different translucency and strengths, though. For the strongest crowns, you will want a metal, such as gold alloy. These are extremely durable, but they will not match your tooth. So, these are generally only used for teeth towards the back of the mouth. We also offer porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. These are metal crowns with a porcelain outer shell to give you the strength and aesthetic appeal. For more information on root canals and restorations, call New Life Dental at (227) 258-3188. |
 Office HoursMon-Thu: 8:00am - 5:00pm *Closed for lunch 12-1pm Mon, Tues, Thurs & 1-2pm Weds Fri: Closed |
