Endodontics in Colorado Springs, CO
If your tooth hurts because of tooth decay or pulp damage, it is vital to seek professional treatment promptly. An untreated tooth will not only become more painful but challenging to treat, decreasing your chances of being able to salvage the tooth through endodontic therapies. At Broadmoor Dental in Colorado Springs, CO 80905, we provide root canal procedures to address the diseased dental pulp and restore tooth function.
What Is Endodontics?
Endodontic treatments involve preserving the whole tooth pulp or removing all the diseased pulp. Additionally, endodontic procedures address teeth with irreversible inflamed or infected pulp tissue. In addition, they help treat diseased or injured teeth, re-establishing their previous functions.
Why Root Canal Treatment?
The need for a root canal procedure can arise from a dental decay that has penetrated the tooth root or trauma to the tooth. Either of these causes is damaging to the tooth pulp. The tooth's inner chamber comprises blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. When the tooth has matured, it can survive without the pulp due to its access to surrounding live tissues.
Root canal treatment effectively saves the tooth by removing the diseased or damaged pulp. Afterward, a crown is placed on the tooth to prevent further damage.
Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection
Most patients don't realize they have an oral problem until they experience pain or swelling. Some common reasons for root canal therapy include:
- Toothache
- Pain or pressure when you bite, chew, or press on the tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Swelling near or around the tooth
- Discolored tooth
- Broken tooth
- Pus discharge
The Root Canal Procedure
The major steps involved in saving the damaged tooth include:
- Diagnosis: Our dentist will examine the tooth and take digital X-rays to confirm dental pulp infection.
- Anesthesia: A local anesthetic is given to numb the affected tooth.
- Preparation: The tooth is isolated using a rubber protective shield, which keeps it clean and dry.
- Cleaning: Next, a tiny opening is made in the tooth crown, and the infected pulp is cleaned out from the inner chamber using small dental instruments.
- Sealing: After the affected tooth has been cleaned and contoured, the root canal will be sealed with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha.
- Filling: A temporary filling is placed over the opening, followed by a permanent dental crown to strengthen the treated tooth further.
Aftercare of a Root Canal
If you experience pain, do not be stressed. It is pretty standard for patients to experience mild discomfort for a few days after a root canal that can be effectively treated with pain medication. We will prescribe antibiotics to ensure speedy healing. To prevent further decay, continue to practice good dental hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, and schedule regular dental exams and cleanings.
To learn more about our endodontic treatments, visit the Broadmoor Dental office at 1930 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905. You can also reach us at (719) 576-5566.
