Root canal therapy is available for patients with acute tooth infection
At Taylor Dental Care, Drs. Michelle and Glenn Taylor regularly perform dental procedures such as endodontic therapy or “root canal” treatment. Sandy, Utah patients can maintain their natural tooth in place even after infection or damage by undergoing this procedure. The only option to root canal treatment is permanent extraction of the natural tooth, which should be avoided whenever possible. Many patients who are told that they could benefit from root canal therapy may have many questions about what it is and its use to save the smile.
What’s a root canal?
Many Sandy, Utah area patients who are told they could benefit from a root canal may be unsure what it is. Also known as endodontic therapy, the root canal procedure is performed to address a problem such as internal infection of the tooth, an extensive cavity, or an abscess. During the process, the dentist will create an access point into the inner canals of the tooth. Through this area, the dentist will then remove the dental pulp inside the tooth and disinfect the canals before filling the tooth. In some cases, the dentist may also create and bond a dental crown over the tooth to offer another layer of strength.
Do root canals hurt?
It is a general misconception that root canals hurt. They are often performed to alleviate the pain and discomfort that patients might experience. A constant toothache is usually an indication of an infection that requires the procedure to address. The root canal procedure is performed with proper sedation and anesthesia to ensure patient comfort from start to finish!
Do I need a root canal?
Determining if root canal therapy is needed starts with an evaluation with the team at Taylor Dental Care which may include dental x-rays. Call the office of Drs. Michelle and Glenn Taylor today at (801) 285-6607 to request a consultation visit at 9924 South 700 E. The team accepts new patients from in and around the community of Sandy, UT, and provides services for both children and adults.
Root Canal
Root canal therapy is a very common procedure. It has a reputation of being undesirable and painful. But when done properly it is actually painless. Every tooth in your mouth is composed of a crown and a root. When a cavity or bacteria penetrates the tooth, the root and its nerves become irritated. As a result, the bacteria within the pulp cavity needs to be removed and cleaned in order to restore the tooth to its healthy state. Following the procedure, the tooth is fragile and consequently is restored with the natural crown for a lifetime of durability. Root canals have a success rate of 95% or greater. Most root canal are diagnosed by patients’ sensitivities to a specific tooth. Be sure to consult your dentist any symptoms or discomfort occur.