When tooth decay reaches the inner pulp, a specialized endodontic procedure known as a root canal is often necessary to restore oral health. During this treatment, we remove the infected pulp, thoroughly disinfect the area, and seal the tooth to eliminate infection and alleviate painful inflammation.
At Carolina Smiles Center, our team’s expertise, combined with state-of-the-art technology, allows us to provide comfortable, virtually painless endodontic care.
Our Endodontic Treatments
Understanding Root Canal Therapy
If tooth decay progresses, root canal therapy may be required to save your tooth. This happens when bacteria invade the pulp—the network of blood vessels and nerves inside the tooth’s root.
Because infections in this area can cause severe pain, we begin by thoroughly cleaning the affected tooth before carefully removing the damaged pulp to relieve discomfort. Afterward, we apply a topical antibiotic to eliminate any remaining bacteria and prevent reinfection. Finally, we fill and seal the tooth to restore its structure.
This process removes the infection, eliminates pain, and helps preserve your natural tooth, preventing the need for extraction.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
The primary advantage of root canal treatment is that it allows you to preserve your natural tooth, even after significant decay. By preventing the need for extraction, endodontic therapy minimizes future dental complications, helps you maintain a confident smile, and ensures you can continue enjoying your favorite foods. Additional benefits include:
- Compared to having your natural tooth extracted, receiving a root canal is almost always painless and frequently results in less discomfort during the healing process.
- The majority of root canal-treated teeth can last a lifetime if properly maintained.
- Tooth extraction can take longer than root canal treatment, requires follow-up appointments and restorative options like bridges, and often results in higher costs.
- Dental crowns function like natural teeth and look aesthetically pleasing.
Why Do You Need a Crown After a Root Canal?
After root canal treatment, experts recommend restoring the tooth with a dental crown over a normal filling to ensure maximum protection.
Teeth that have received a root canal may become weaker and more susceptible to damage even after removing the decay. In these situations, placing a crown over the tooth lowers the possibility of cracks or fractures, and your tooth will continue to function like any other tooth!
Root Canal Treatment Aftercare Tips
After undergoing a root canal treatment, proper aftercare is essential to ensure a smooth recovery and the long-term success of the procedure. Here are some key aftercare tips to follow:
- Take any prescribed pain relievers as directed.
- Stick to a soft diet for a few days. Refrain from eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the treatment area or cause pain.
- Maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the treated tooth.
- Avoid strenuous activities for the first few days following the procedure to allow your body to heal.
- Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol for at least 48 hours, as these can interfere with the healing process.
- If a temporary filling was placed, be careful not to dislodge it. Avoid sticky foods and chewing on that side of your mouth.
Get the Endodontics You Need with Carolina Smiles Center
Many patients in the past have often associated with pain and discomfort. However, treatments like root canals are key to preserving your tooth. Moreover, today, patients are six times more likely to report painless procedures thanks to contemporary methods and sedation.
If you’d like to experience a comfortable root canal with Carolina Smiles Center, contact us today!
