Root Canal Treatment

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Root Canal Southborough MA

Root canal treatments are performed on teeth that have excessive decay or infection. In brief, the natural cavity in the center of the tooth is called the root canal and the soft area within the root canal is the pulp. There is also a nerve that lies within the root canal. The nerve and pulp are removed from the tooth. The dentist then cleans and seals the inside the tooth to prevent further decay from forming. A crown or other restoration is then placed on the affected tooth to restore full function. If a root canal is not performed, the tooth can become abscessed and may need to be removed.

Having the nerve removed from the tooth will not affect the use of the tooth too much. It only serves as a sensory function – to provide hot and cold sensations. The tooth can still function without a nerve. The pulp is removed when it has become damaged. Keeping it in the tooth only causes bacteria to multiply. These bacteria can lead to infections and abscesses, which are pockets of pus found in the roots of the tooth. Abscesses and infections can cause swelling, drainage problems and bone loss. 

Root Canal Southborough MADo I Need a Root Canal?

The team at Southborough Dental Partners can assess your mouth and determine if you need a root canal. Here are some signs that you might need one:

  • A cracked or chipped tooth
  • Pain while biting or chewing
  • Pimples on the gums
  • Tender or swollen gums
  • Darkening of the gums
  • Severe decay
  • Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold

Are Root Canals Painful?

You will likely feel less pain after the procedure, since you will no longer have the pain of the toothache. Likewise, the inflammation and infection will be eliminated. During the actual procedure, you will be given anesthetics so you will feel comfortable. 

For a few days after the root canal treatment, your teeth will likely be sensitive. The dentist will give you medications to control the pain. For example, over-the-counter pain relievers will be helpful.  After your procedure, avoid eating for several hours, as you will have numbness in your mouth and you do not want to accidentally bite your cheek or tongue. For the first few days, eat soft foods such as eggs and applesauce. Consequently, hard foods may hurt your teeth.

Contact Us Today

If your tooth is infected or badly decayed, you can save it with help from Southborough Dental Partners. Call our office at (508) 357-8800 to schedule an appointment.