Are you experiencing harsh, unrelenting pain in your teeth? Are your gums swelling and sensitive? If you’re unable to withstand hot and cold temperatures to your teeth, you might need a root canal and Dr. Randy Fagan, your Broken Arrow, OK, dentist can help.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure that is performed on a tooth which is damaged, decayed or infected. If the infection has occurred in the soft pulp tissue within the tooth, the nerves and blood vessels within become inflamed, resulting in severe pain.
Tooth decay, chips and cracks create entry points for bacteria to reach the inner pulp of the tooth. If you have had a recent injury, it is recommended you contact Dr. Fagan as soon as possible. If you don’t, this may lead to serious dental deterioration.
The Root Canal Therapy Procedure
The steps are very simple.
- First, your dentist will apply an anesthetic to numb the tooth.
- An aperture is made for easy access to the pulp and canals.
- Next, the decayed tissue is removed and the canal is cleaned and disinfected.
- Finally, a biocompatible filling seals the canal, and a crown is placed to protect the tooth.
Need a consultation?
Left untreated, a tooth may not be viable or saved anymore, which may lead to dental abscesses or even systemic infections. You can tell it’s time to call the dentist for a root canal by the continual severe pain and sensitivity to biting, or heat and cold. Under recommendation from the Center for Disease Control, American Dental Association and Oklahoma Dental Association our office has made the decision to only see patients with dental emergencies. You can reach Dr. Randy Fagan of Broken Arrow, OK, at the emergency number (918) 455-6406.