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Posts for: December, 2015

By Franklin L. Gordon, Jr., D.D.S., M.S.
December 11, 2015
Category: Oral Health
Tags: Root Canals  

Root canal therapy is a valuable treatment that can save damaged or diseased teeth. Thanks to innovations in treatment and pain management, a root canal treatment is usually no more painful than getting a filling. Frank Gordon, Jr, DDS, performs root canals in Flint and explains the procedure.Root Canal

The problem

Root canal specialists like Dr. Gordon remove inflamed or infected pulp from teeth. Teeth consist of three layers: the hard outer enamel layer, the softer dentin and the pulp at the center of the tooth. The pulp is full of nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue and extends into the roots of your teeth. An untreated inflammation or infection of the pulp can lead to a dental abscess and tooth loss. The condition requires prompt treatment because if an abscess occurs, the infection can spread to other parts of your body through your bloodstream.

Causes

An inflammation or infection can occur due to a variety of reasons, including:

  • A blow to your tooth
  • A crack or fracture in the tooth
  • Extensive decay
  • Repeated dental treatment on the tooth

The procedure

If an X-ray and other tests confirm that you need a root canal, your dentist will inject the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. If you prefer, nitrous oxide can also be used for pain relief. After the tooth is numb, your dentist will drill through the crown to reach the pulp. He'll use a tiny file to remove the infected tissue and clean the canals in the roots of your tooth.

After the tooth is clean, he may add tiny metal posts to strengthen it before filling it with a durable material called gutta percha. In some cases, your dentist may recommend that the tooth drain for several days before filling. The final step of the process is the placement of a crown on your tooth. The crown covers your tooth completely and provides stability.

Concerned about a problem tooth and think you may need a root canal? If you live in the Flint area, call Frank Gordon, Jr, DDS, at (810) 230-0990 and schedule an appointment. Prompt treatment is essential to your oral health.


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