The tooth is put together in layers. The outer layer is the enamel and the inside is called the pulp chamber. The pulp is the life of the tooth. The nerves and blood vessels run through the center of the tooth. Due to injuries or excessive decay the tooth can become necrotic. That means infection can set in, which can be detrimental to the tooth and your overall health also. An abscess can form if the infected tooth is not handled in a timely manner.

If you have a tooth injury and your tooth is loose seek a dentist who can perform endodontic therapy right away. Dr. Young can perform vitality tests and determine if the tooth is in deed dying. No one wants to loose a tooth so don’t wait. The longer you wait the harder it is to save the tooth.

If the tooth has in deed died and needs a root canal Dr. Young and his staff are highly qualified to perform the procedure right in the office. He is an expert at the complicated procedure and will help you feel good about the whole process. The pulp of the tooth will need to be removed and that is a procedure that needs to be completed quickly. Pain is controlled to the fullest extent. If the infected pulp is left inside the tooth bacteria can grow and cause an abscess. Abscesses are no joke and can get out of hand quickly, so the pulp must be cleaned out completely.

Here are some signs of Root Canal Treatment being necessary:

1. The tooth turns dark gray or black
2. A drainage point above the tooth that resembles a pimple
3. A swelling that is sore above the tooth in the gum area
4. Hot and Cold Sensitivity for a prolong period of time after the temperature is gone
5. Severe pain either with chewing or pressure especially when you lay down

After it is determined by the dentist that you need a root canal, know that you are in good hands with Dr. Young and his staff. X-rays determine the extent of the infection and the size of the root canal or canals. The dentist will also look at the surrounding area accessing the bones condition. The dentist will then use anesthesia to put the area to sleep so that you are completely comfortable. Once you are feeling good the tooth will be isolated to keep it dry. A small whole will be made to clean out the pulp. The dentist will use a series of steps to ensure that the tooth is completely cleaned of any remaining nerve tissue. Sometimes the root canal happens in a couple of visits. If this happens a temporary filling is placed until the treatment is finished. If there was large decay to go along with the root canal the dentist will let you know if you need a crown to keep the tooth healthy. The inside of the tooth is filled with a gutta percha compound that has a rubber consistency to it. Once the root canal is completed a filling is placed in the access hole.

In the past root canal treatments were reported to be painful. The modern techniques used will help keep pain at bay. Most people are not even able to feel anything more than pressure and movement. Dr. Young tries to make the procedure as pleasant as possible.

It might take several days for the area around the tooth to settle down from the procedure or any infection that might have occurred. Ibuprofen can help with any pain symptoms. One must be careful until the tooth is completed to avoid further damage to the tooth. A soft diet might be the key to maintaining the fragile tooth’s state. Avoiding blows to the mouth in any sort of fashion is always important.

The best way to avoid a root canal is by keeping up with oral hygiene. Seeing your dentist for regular preventative cleanings will also help keep small decay from becoming big decay. Addressing dental issues early is easier and less costly. If one is involved in sports it is always a good idea to invest in a mouth guard. Blows to the mouth that cause trauma almost always end up with a root canal.

Avoid root canals all together with taking care of good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. If the need for a root canal arises know that you are in good hands with Dr. Young and his Silver State Dental team.