What is a Root Canal?
The tooth is the hardest substance in our body. Though the top layer of a tooth is the hard enamel layer which is made of calcium phosphate, it can be destroyed by harmful acids produced by bacteria. The process of tooth decay involves a destruction of enamel, dentin and pulp. When a dental cavity grows deep into the tooth, the bacteria come in contact with the soft pulp which is made of nerves and blood vessels. Inflammation or infection of pulp can lead to severe tooth pain and cause serious dental problems. The tooth should be treated soon to prevent the spread of infection. In such cases, root canal or endodontic therapy is performed to save the tooth from danger and to stop the spread of dental infection. Dr. Ross A Kaplan has performed root canal at our Hamden office. We have successfully saved natural teeth in many patients who visit us from Hamden, North Haven and surrounding communities. If you are suffering from a toothache or teeth sensitivity make an appointment and visit our office at the earliest.
Tooth decay process and the need for root canal
There are millions of bacteria living in our oral cavity. Some of these bacteria are good for our health while others are not. Debris from sugary foods can increase the activity of bad bacteria. The bacteria feed on sugars to produce acids that demineralize teeth leading to decay. As a result, caries is formed. If not treated in time, dental cavity grows deeper into the tooth and the bacteria can reach the pulp. The pulp has nerves and blood vessels. When the bacteria come in contact with pulp, it gets inflamed and infected. Cracks and injuries to the tooth can also give bacteria the access to the pulp.
A Root canal is performed to remove the infected pulp from the tooth and clear bacteria from the area. This can cure the infection and stop it from spreading to other teeth. Thus the natural tooth restored and saved.
Root canal – How it is done at our Hamden office
Dr. Kaplan performs thorough oral check and notes down the symptoms. The infection of pulp can cause severe a toothache, swelling of gums and sometimes discoloration of the tooth. Apart from these commonly known symptoms, there are other indications which only a dentist can notice. X-rays may be taken during the course. On confirmation that a root canal is needed, the treatment procedure is explained to the patient.
A Local anesthetic is used to numb the tooth. A rubber dam isolates the tooth from nearby teeth. An opening is made in the tooth using drills. The pulp is removed from the chamber and a dental file is used to clean the root canal. An anti-bacterial agent can be used to kill the remaining bacteria in the pulp chamber. The root canal is sealed and dental fillings are used to restore the tooth. Finally, a dental crown covers the tooth to aid its functionality.
If you have any questions about our services, please contact us today at (203) 281-3700.