Root Canal Procedure

Root Canal Procedure

Idaho Falls Root Canal

By: Karli

Root canal treatment is the last option to avoid a necessary tooth extraction. While most patients are not thrilled with the news they need a root canal, the treatment is not painful and will help to eliminate any pain you may be feeling. Our Idaho Falls dentist, Dr. Thuernagle, offers his certified expertise in root canal treatment at Legacy Dental. To schedule an appointment with our Idaho Falls dentist click here. Legacy Dental offers a wide range of dental services, including root canals, regular checkups, cavities, fillings and more, so schedule an appointment today!

Idaho Falls root canal

 

Root Canals Needed

Root Canals are needed when there is a deep cavity in the tooth and the tooth’s pulp becomes infected. Pulp is the center part of your tooth which contains connective tissue and other living cells like nerves and blood vessels. If the infection is not quickly treated and resolved, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, especially in the mouth, jaw and teeth. Patients who have had a past medical history should especially take immediate action, as the tooth decay and infection can affect the rest of the body.

Seek Dental Care

Our Idaho Falls dentist should be contacted if you feel any pain or sensitivity in your tooth because it could be from a number of things which have gone undetected. With a few dental x-rays Dr. Thuernagle will be able to determine exactly what the problem is and what is causing the pain. If a root canal is needed, our Idaho Falls dentist will work quickly to perform root canal treatment. Dr. Thuernagle will remove tooth decay from spreading in the mouth, clean and shape the inner walls of the tooth canal, sterilize and dry the tooth, and possibly fill or place a crown on the tooth. While every patient is treated for their own unique condition, the general root canal procedure remains the same. Dr. Thuernagle will do all he can to treat the infected tooth and help to preserve the tooth and avoid more problems down the road.

 

Why Avoid Tooth Extraction

While tooth extraction may initially seem like a more affordable alternative, Dr. Thuernagle would not recommend tooth removal if it can be avoided. Consequences of a tooth extraction may multiply, and include possible bone loss, shifting teeth, difficulty chewing, and other more costly maintenance treatments after the extraction. Root canals done right may be a much simpler, less costly solution in the long run.

 

How to Prevent Root Canals

Everyone is aware root canals can be costly, so the question is how to avoid needing a root canal? Infection and decay in the tooth can be avoided by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth, and with regular dental checkups. Regular checkups with Dr. Thuernagle are important to inspect the condition of the teeth and perform teeth cleanings and maintenance. It is recommended by dentists everywhere to schedule an appointment at least every six months.

Without regular checkups, decay and infection may go undetected for months, creating a larger hole in your tooth, and increasing the risk for the infection to spread to other parts of the body. If you would like to prevent a costly root canal, schedule an appointment with our Idaho Falls dentist today by calling 208-346-8122. Our certified staff at Legacy Dental wants you to enjoy your smile and be free from the effects of infected teeth. Call today!