Root Canal Therapy in West Melbourne
Root canal therapy treats the inside of a tooth when its pulp, the nerve and blood vessels, is infected or inflamed, with the goal of keeping the tooth.
Why the inside of a tooth may need treatment
Deep decay, a crack or an injury can damage the pulp inside a tooth. It may become inflamed or infected, causing pain or an abscess, although some affected teeth have few symptoms. Treatment removes the diseased pulp, cleans and disinfects the canals and seals them.
Signs a tooth may need it
- Lingering pain to hot or cold
- Pain when biting
- A pimple-like bump on the gum
- Swelling or tenderness near the tooth
- A darkening tooth
What happens
Treatment is performed with local anesthetic. An opening is made, the canals are cleaned and shaped, and they are filled and sealed. Depending on the tooth and its complexity, you may be referred for part or all of the treatment, and this is explained beforehand. Antibiotics are not a routine substitute, because they cannot cure the infection inside the tooth on their own; they may be used in particular situations.
The final restoration matters
Root canal treatment addresses the inside of the tooth; a lasting restoration is also needed to seal and protect it. Back teeth commonly need a crown or other protective coverage because they carry heavy chewing forces. Some front teeth may be restored with a filling, depending on how much healthy structure remains.
Avoid heavy chewing on the treated tooth until it has the restoration recommended for you. Delaying this step can increase the risk of fracture or reinfection, even if the tooth no longer hurts.
Risks and alternatives
Root canal treatment can fail, and a treated tooth sometimes needs retreatment or extraction. The alternative to saving a tooth is removing it, followed by considering a bridge, implant or denture. These tradeoffs are explained so you can choose.
Recovery and aftercare
It is common for the tooth to feel tender when biting for a few days as the tissues around the root settle. Chew on the other side until the tooth feels comfortable, and follow any specific medication directions you are given on the label or by the office; dosing is not something to guess at.
Protect the temporary filling or restoration placed after treatment: avoid sticky or hard foods on that side, and keep brushing gently. Call us promptly if the temporary falls out, if pain or swelling worsens, if a bump on the gum appears or returns, or if you develop fever. Spreading facial swelling or trouble breathing or swallowing needs an emergency department.
Saving a tooth versus replacing it
Keeping a natural tooth often keeps chewing and neighboring teeth stable, and replacement can involve more steps and cost. But a tooth that is badly broken, has little remaining structure or has poor support may not be worth treating. Dr. Bailey will tell you honestly whether the outlook for your tooth is good, uncertain or poor.
Common questions
Is a root canal painful?
It is done under local anesthetic. Some soreness afterward is common and we explain what to expect.
Can antibiotics replace a root canal?
Antibiotics alone do not remove damaged or infected pulp inside the tooth. They may be prescribed for particular situations, but do not replace treatment of the source. Only take antibiotics prescribed for you, as directed.
Will I need a crown afterward?
Often, yes. We explain the final restoration up front.
Will I know the cost before treatment?
Dr. Bailey discusses your options and gives expected treatment costs in writing before care begins. Questions about cost are welcome at any point.
How long does a root canal take?
It depends on the tooth and its complexity. Some are completed in one visit and others take more than one. We explain this at your visit.
Related care
Dr. John T. Bailey, DMD · West Melbourne Dentist · 917 South Wickham Road, West Melbourne, FL 32904.
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