Root Canal Therapy in Phoenix, AZ
Your teeth, as well as the soft tissues on the inside of your mouth, are filled with nerves. The nerves that cover the roots of your teeth can become irritated or infected due to deep decay. When this occurs, the nerves can be damaged and need to be removed to protect the health of your teeth and mouth. During a root canal procedure, our dentist in Phoenix, AZ, Dr. Nejad, gently removes the affected nerve tissue from your tooth. This procedure will be completed using a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area. Once the process is over, you will be prescribed antibiotic medication to treat the infection and prevent further issues from occurring. After a root canal treatment in Phoenix, AZ, your tooth will be weaker, so you must have it restored with a dental crown to protect it from damage.
Reasons for Root Canal Therapy in Phoenix, AZ
- The decay has reached the tooth pulp, and the decay must be removed.
- The tooth is fractured, and the nerve tissue is exposed, causing pain.
- Trauma or injury has caused damage to the nerve tissue inside the tooth root.
- An abscess has developed due to severe tooth decay or a cracked tooth.
- There is leakage in the connections between the gums and teeth due to advanced periodontal disease.
- The tooth is absent due to a traumatic injury or extraction.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Our dentist in Phoenix, AZ, will numb the area surrounding the tooth with a local anesthetic before they place a small protective sheet called a dental dam over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean. Next, our dentist will open the top of the tooth to access its pulp chamber and root canals. Then, our dentist in Phoenix, AZ, will remove the infected tissue and thoroughly clean the chamber and canals using small files and a rotary device with water or sodium hypochlorite solution. The files remove the tough, infected tissue and shape the canals. If needed, a medicine may be placed in the root canals to help eliminate any remaining bacteria. In most cases, a temporary filling will be placed in the access hole to protect your tooth between appointments.
Finally, our dentist in 85003 will fill and seal the tooth with a permanent filling or dental crown to protect it from further damage and restore it to its full function. They may also recommend other treatments, such as placing a porcelain dental crown over the tooth for additional protection. Contact us to learn more!
Aftercare: How to Take Care of Your Teeth Post-Root Canal
After undergoing a root canal procedure in Phoenix, AZ, it is essential to take good care of your teeth to ensure proper healing and prevent any complications.
- Follow any post-operative instructions provided by our dentist in Phoenix, AZ, diligently. This may include taking prescribed medications, avoiding certain foods that can irritate the treated area, and maintaining good oral hygiene practices.
- It’s crucial to continue brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly. This helps in keeping the treated tooth clean and free from any bacteria that could lead to infection.
- Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods immediately after the root canal as this can cause damage to the restoration or increase sensitivity. Opt for softer foods initially until you feel comfortable enough to resume your normal diet.
- Regular dental check-ups are also important post-root canal therapy. Our dentist in Phoenix, AZ, will monitor the healing process and ensure there are no signs of infection or other issues developing.
By following these aftercare tips, you can promote healing, maintain oral health, and enjoy a restored tooth for years to come.
To learn more, visit West Portland Dental at 100 W Portland St Suite 104, Phoenix, AZ 85003, or call (602) 580-0414. Our team will guide you further.
