Root Canals

A toothache can be a painful reminder that our teeth contain many nerves. Teeth consist of a hard outer layer surrounding a soft and fragile core. Both parts of the tooth play a crucial role in your overall oral health.

The soft center of each tooth is home to a nerve bundle and many blood vessels. This area is responsible for providing the tooth with nutrition to keep it healthy. It is also responsible for sensation in the tooth, to warn you of any damage. Healthy teeth give these nerves no reason to send warning signals in the form of pain.

If you feel pain in a tooth, it deserves your immediate attention. For some reason, the nerves inside your tooth have become irritated or damaged, and we need to assess the area to discover the cause.

Some patients develop an infection in the jaw without noticing symptoms. Bacteria can access the nerve bundle through holes caused by decay. Cracks affecting this area can also cause discomfort. 

Regardless of the reason for your pain, Dr. Patrick will assess the area to see if the nerve inside your tooth is capable of healing. If it is significantly damaged or infected, we may recommend a root canal.

We always numb the area before removing the affected nerve. We disinfect and shape the nerve canal before filling it with sealing material. Once the root canal is finished, we apply a filling or crown to protect the tooth and restore the function of your mouth.

Are There Safety Risks?

Viral Internet articles commonly claim safety risks due to root canals. We feel the need to clarify that these articles are simply untrue. These widespread rumors are based on disproven research and unsupported theories.

The theories referenced in these articles emerged decades ago without any scientific evidence. Some even refer to studies conducted over a century ago that have long since been disproven. 

Unbiased and reputable researchers paint a more accurate picture of the risk associated with root canals. The American Association of Endodontists stays updated on of all the current and past research regarding safety. The organization stands by the use of root canals as a safe and necessary dental procedure. 

Always be careful when reading medical information on the Internet. If you ever have doubts, feel free to come to us with your questions or concerns.  

Updated methods make root canal treatment safer now than ever before. While the traditional approach restored function for many, modern dentistry assures you have nothing to worry about when it comes to your root canal procedure.