A root canal is one of those procedures that many people are probably vaguely aware of but know little about until a dental professional tells you that you need it.
Generally, a root canal is a restorative procedure designed to help save injured or decaying teeth by eliminating infections in the tooth pulp. Also known as endodontic treatment, the procedure is safe, effective, and painless, thanks to anesthesia and sedation.
The key to saving natural teeth through a root canal is spotting the problem as early as possible. Routine checkups and cleanings are a vital part of maintaining oral health and monitoring for possible issues. You should also see a dentist if you are experiencing tooth or jaw pain.
At Pearl White Dentistry, we provide a wide range of dental services for our patients, from preventive checkups and cleanings to fillings, root canals, and other restorative work.
Fort Lauderdale dentist Dr. Natalia Benda-Celenski prides herself on making personal connections with her patients and taking the time to understand each person’s unique situation and goals. That is why many patients call her the best dentist in South Florida. Check out our latest patient reviews here.
Our Fort Lauderdale Dentist Explains What a Root Canal Treats
Root canals are generally recommended to address serious tooth decay. These are situations in which the decay has moved beyond the exterior enamel of a tooth to the interior pulp. If untreated, the infected pulp will cause the tooth to continue to decay and eventually die.
Common reasons for root canals include:
- Deep tooth decay
- Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
- Malfunctioning crowns
- A cracked, chipped, or damaged tooth
At Pearl White, Fort Lauderdale dentist Dr. Natalia and her team will explain specifically why they believe you need a root canal and how the process can help you save your tooth and restore your smile.
How a Root Canal Works
During the procedure, a dentist removes the damaged pulp, which runs from the tooth’s root in the jawbone to the top of the crown. The root canals are then cleaned, and the tooth is filled to help prevent further infection.
The root canal process is fairly intensive and was once considered painful. Fortunately, dentists now use anesthesia and sedation to keep patients calm and comfortable throughout the procedure. It is more painful to live with an infected tooth than to have a root canal.
The procedure is typically completed over one or two appointments. A temporary crown may be installed on the tooth to protect it between appointments.
Visit a Fort Lauderdale Dentist Today
If you are experiencing oral pain and other issues or are simply looking for a routine checkup and cleaning, Fort Lauderdale dentist Dr. Natalia Benda-Celenski and the staff at Pearl White Dentistry can help.
We take the time to understand each patient’s individual situation and needs and offer services tailored to their goals. That includes providing a full range of restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dental services.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Natalia in Fort Lauderdale, call Pearl White Dentistry at (954) 491-8812 or contact us by email at dr@pearlwhitedentistry.com.