A root canal treatment is performed by dentists to preserve a damaged or decayed tooth that became infected. Before there is no other option to treat an infected tooth, so it is often extracted to alleviate the pain felt by patients. However, despite its significance in keeping oral health in good shape, many still avoid the treatment. Potential patients assume that a root canal is painful. But the truth is, those who underwent one compared the experience with a simple dental filling procedure.

Our dentists at Sweet Water Family Dentistry assure patients that any treatment in our practice is performed carefully with their comfort and safety in mind. We understand the discomfort and pain brought by a tooth infection, so we highly encourage our patients to consider a root canal treatment. To make them feel at ease about the procedure, here is a step by step guide!

• The dentist would first administer a local anesthetic to make the patient feel completely comfortable. They would also make sure that the area is appropriately numbed before starting the procedure.
• A rubber dam will be used to isolate the tooth to be treated and its adjacent structures. It is a necessary step to create a sterilized environment free from saliva and other substances that may cause contamination.
• The procedure will start with the dentist drilling a hole on the chewing surface of the tooth; this is performed to gain access to the pulp and canals.
• Special dental instruments will be used to get rid of any infected portions of the tooth like the pulp. The chamber and the root canals will also be cleaned thoroughly by removing any tissues that can potentially cause a problem in the future. This step is painless not just because of the anesthetic but since the structures removed are already dead or dying.
• Antiseptic and antibacterial solutions are utilized to disinfect the tooth.
• A special instrument will be used to prepare the canals for the placement of fillings and sealants. Afterward, any related debris will be removed before the sealing process is performed.
• Gutta-percha, a thermoplastic material is placed and heated on the canals along with adhesive cement to fill in the spaces. It is vital for the dentist to perform this step properly to avoid future reinfections.
• Fillings, either temporary or permanent, are bonded on the access hole. The dentist may even consider putting posts to make sure that the tooth has enough structure to hold a filling and to retain its strength.
• The dentist may prescribe antibiotics to prevent or treat any infections, so it is essential for the patient to follow any given instructions. Over the counter medications may also be taken to manage any discomfort or pain during the recovery period.
• It is possible for the dentist to recommend the placement of a dental crown as a support for the treated tooth. The restoration would act as a seal to protect the teeth from further complications.

For more inquiries about Root Canal Treatments in Lithia Springs, GA, call us at Sweet Water Family Dentistry. You can visit us at 1515 Westfork Dr., Suite A, Lithia Springs, GA 30122.

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