The pulp at the center of each of your teeth contains everything necessary to keep your teeth alive and healthy. If that pulp becomes infected, you can experience health problems that can reach beyond your mouth. Our dentist and team can provide you with root canal therapy in Freehold, New Jersey, to preserve your smile. Call Bordia Dental Associates at 732-409-0330 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Rupal Bordia.
Root canal therapy is a highly effective treatment designed to save a tooth that has been severely damaged or infected. When the inner tissues of a tooth, known as the pulp, become infected or inflamed due to deep decay, cracks or trauma, root canal therapy becomes necessary. Without treatment, the infection can spread, potentially leading to tooth loss and further complications. Root canal therapy allows you to keep your natural tooth and avoid the need for extraction and replacement options.
During a root canal procedure, our skilled dentist will carefully remove the infected or damaged pulp tissue, clean the inner chamber of the tooth and seal it with a special medicated filling. This process eliminates bacteria and prevents further infection, restoring the tooth to a healthier state. To ensure the tooth’s durability, a dental crown is typically placed over it following the procedure. The crown provides added strength, protects the tooth from future damage and restores its natural look, so you can enjoy a healthy, functional smile.
Many patients feel apprehensive about root canal therapy, often due to misconceptions about pain and discomfort. However, advancements in dental technology and numbing techniques make the procedure relatively pain-free. Most patients find that a root canal feels similar to receiving a routine filling. Our team is committed to providing a comfortable experience by offering sedation options and effective numbing to minimize discomfort. Your comfort and well-being are our priority and we strive to make the treatment as smooth as possible.
Root canal therapy typically takes one to two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection and the complexity of the tooth. After the procedure, most patients experience relief from pain and can return to daily activities with minimal recovery time. Our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and protect your restored tooth.
FAQ
What is root canal therapy and why is it necessary?
Root canal therapy is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation within the pulp of a tooth, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected due to decay, trauma or cracks, it can lead to severe pain and swelling. Root canal therapy removes the infected tissue, cleans the tooth’s interior and seals it to prevent future infection. This treatment allows you to keep your natural tooth, avoiding the need for extraction and replacement.
Is root canal therapy painful?
Root canal therapy has a reputation for being painful, but advancements in dental technology and numbing techniques have made the procedure relatively comfortable. Our dentist uses local anesthesia to numb the area and most patients report feeling minimal discomfort, similar to a routine filling. For patients with anxiety, we also offer sedation options to make the experience as stress-free as possible. The goal is to relieve pain caused by infection, not to cause additional discomfort.
What can I expect during and after a root canal procedure?
During a root canal, we will remove the infected pulp tissue, clean the inside of the tooth and fill it with a medicated material to prevent reinfection. The procedure typically takes one to two appointments, depending on the complexity of the case. Afterward, you may experience mild soreness, which usually subsides within a few days. Following the root canal, a crown is often placed to strengthen the tooth and restore its function.
How long does a tooth last after root canal therapy?
With proper care, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can last a lifetime. Maintaining good oral hygiene, such as brushing, flossing and regular dental checkups, is essential to protect your restored tooth. A dental crown placed over the treated tooth adds strength and durability, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably. Root canal therapy has a high success rate and the restored tooth can function just like a natural tooth for many years.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as prolonged tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold or swelling around the gums, you may benefit from a root canal. We encourage you to contact our office for a consultation. With root canal therapy, we can help you restore your oral health, relieve pain and preserve your natural smile.