ROOT CANALS

The mainstream media would like to you to think that root canals are painful, however the purpose of this procedure is to relieve your pain, sensitivity, and to remove infection. Root canals are actually great because they enable you to keep a tooth that would otherwise need extraction.

What is a Root Canal Therapy Procedure?

A root canal is usually a multistep process. Some teeth have multiple canals and these canals contain the nerve and blood supply of a tooth. When a tooth becomes severely infected due to an insult (large cavity, crack, or previous dental restoration, etc.), the nerve senses this and translates it into pain. The canals of a tooth are located to remove the infection. Then, the canals are cleaned thoroughly and filled in a manner to prevent bacteria from entering. The dentists at Fresno Dental Works will then recommend an appropriate restoration for that tooth to prevent re-infection.

How Do I Know if I Need a Root Canal?

Extreme sensitivity can indicate that the nerve of a tooth has been aggravated. This aggravation can arise from large dental decay or cavities, crack or fracture, or a large failing restoration such as a filling or crown. These insults can lead to pain, swelling, or an abscess. Sometimes a patient may not even have any pain because the nerve has already degenerated, but a chronic infection exists. We want to be able to get to these "hidden" infections before they become abscesses that cause pain, swelling, and potentially become a dental emergency.

Some of the more obvious symptoms include a tooth that has sensitivity due to biting, or to cold drinks, or even pain that keeps someone up at night. There are a multitude of reasons why the tooth could have sensitivity, so come see Dr. Kalebjian and Dr. Khater to for a proper diagnosis - after all, your tooth sensitivity could be treated with something other than a root canal procedure (ie. filling, fluoride coverage, cleaning, etc.).

If you have a tooth that is causing your pain, we want to know. Whether you need a root canal or another dental treatment please contact Fresno Dental Works for assessment of your dental condition.

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