Root Canals in Glenmont, NY
The most common misconception about root canal therapy is that it hurts. We hear this concern all the time, but we can tell you this simply isn’t true. A root canal is a necessary treatment that doesn’t cause pain – it relieves it. Most of our patients are pleasantly surprised to find out that their procedure was much more comfortable and efficient than they imagined.
However, we understand that you may have lingering doubts about having a root canal. Knowing the facts can go a long way in helping to alleviate your anxiety.
Why Root Canals Are Necessary
Root canal therapy is usually required because decay has spread deep into the pulp, which is where the nerve is located. The pulp is a system of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue inside the tooth that helps maintain its vitality. Unfortunately, once the pulp is irretrievably damaged, a filling is no longer enough to restore the tooth, and a root canal is needed to remove infected tissue.
The Root Canal Procedure at Our Glenmont Office
Root canal therapy involves the removal of nerve, shaping of the root canal, and filling the space up with dental materials to prevent further bacterial infection. First, we’ll administer a local anesthetic to numb the area so you shouldn’t feel any discomfort. We also offer nitrous oxide sedation for your comfort and peace of mind.
We then make a tiny hole in the tooth to access the pulp chamber. Dr. Henry carefully removes the infected or dead pulp tissue using special instruments. The root canals and pulp chamber are then washed and cleansed with antiseptic and antibacterial solutions. In most cases, a dental crown will be required to support and protect the weakened tooth.
In some cases, we may decide that it's in your best interest to refer you to a specialist called an endodontist. This may be required for difficult anatomies of the root or molars in the back of the mouth. Our goal is for you to receive the best dental care, and if we feel we cannot maximize your success rate, we will discuss the referral option with you.
Preventing Reinfection Is Essential
One of our primary goals with root canal therapy is preventing reinfection of the root canal. Even though the space is completely filled, if the tooth is not sufficiently disinfected, the infection will return. At Bethlehem Town Family Dental, we take disinfection of the roots very seriously and irrigate the canals numerous times with disinfectants. We also use a dental device called the Endo-Activator, which goes into the root and remove any remaining bacteria.
In root canal therapy, quicker doesn't always mean better because it’s essential to spend all the time needed to clean the tooth completely. Dr. Henry has the necessary skill to perform very efficient root canal treatment so we can effectively clean the tooth in the shortest time possible.
Comfortable, Stress-Free Care
The idea of having root canal treatment may seem a little intimidating, but Dr. Henry has performed many stress-free root canals with excellent results. Our team is compassionate and caring and will do everything to make sure that your treatment is as comfortable as possible.
If you’re in pain or suspect you may need a root canal, please give us a call and we’ll make arrangements to see you as soon as possible.
