We Can Save Your Teeth With Root Canal Treatment
At McMillan Family Dental, we are passionate about doing all we can to help our patients’ oral health. Teeth are designed to last a lifetime, but when they are not cared for properly or treatment is avoided, it can lead to an extraction and the need for a tooth replacement. There is one treatment we often use to save the tooth before an extraction is needed — a root canal. Over the years, root canals have gotten a bad reputation, but thanks to advancements in treatment and technology, the process is similar to a more involved filling.
What is a Root Canal?
Your teeth have more than one layer. The outer layer, known as the tooth enamel, is where tooth decay develops first. When decay is not treated in a timely manner, it will continue to grow and spread to the inside of the tooth and eventually into the tooth root. We will recommend a root canal when the inside of the tooth root, known as the pulp, is infected. A root canal is the process of removing infected nerve tissue from the inside of the tooth. The root is then cleaned, disinfected, filled, and sealed. If a root canal is not performed when needed, the only option will be to extract the tooth to remove the infection.
Signs You Have a Problem
It is important to regularly check your mouth for signs of a problem with your oral health. Your mouth will often give you a warning sign before you experience a problem or emergency. If you experience any of the following symptoms, be sure to contact our office as soon as possible:
- Recurring sensitivity when eating or drinking hot or cold foods
- Swollen and tender gums
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Discomfort in teeth with existing fillings
It is important that you contact us as soon as possible if you are experiencing discomfort in any of your teeth, especially a tooth that is in need of treatment or has had treatment in the past. If an infected tooth is left untreated, it will not heal on its own and cause more damage to your mouth and jawbone over time. If you have not visited our office, which is located in Meridian, ID, recently or are feeling any tooth discomfort, please call us today to schedule your next appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!
