Root canal therapy is an endodontic procedure that can restore the health and function of an infected tooth. Endodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the study and treatment of the dental pulp and tooth nerve. If tooth decay reaches below the outer layer (enamel) of the tooth, deep into the interior of the tooth, the dental pulp and tooth nerve may become infected. An endodontic treatment, such as root canal therapy, may then be needed to restore the health of the tooth. In the past, an infected tooth often required extraction (removal), but thanks to advanced endodontic research and techniques, the tooth can be saved through root canal therapy. When a tooth is infected, you may notice symptoms such as:
- Severe tooth pain, especially when biting and chewing
- A recurring pimple or bump on the nearby gums
- Darkening in the color of the tooth
- Extreme tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums
Root canal therapy can alleviate these symptoms and restore your smile to optimal health and function. Root canal therapy involves removing the infected dental pulp and tooth nerve, cleaning the tooth and filling in the tooth. In order to seal and protect the tooth, and to restore its structure, our skilled dentists, Dr. Sam Amirani or Dr. Tom Lawlis, may recommend a custom dental crown. Root canal therapy in Wichita, Kansas, is typically completed in just one painless visit to Associates in Family Dentistry. If you suffer from the symptoms of an infected tooth, we encourage you to contact our office at 316-686-7155 soon to receive the care you need. We are committed to improving the health of your smile!