What to know
About Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is one of the last lines of defense for saving a badly damaged or infected tooth. It’s the only type of dental restoration we offer that repairs a tooth from the inside, as opposed to the outside (like a filling or a dental crown.)
Root canal treatment is also called endodontic therapy. Some of the reasons why a tooth may need to be treated endodontically include:
*Even accidents or traumatic injuries that occur decades prior can gradually lead to death of dental nerves and darkening of the affected tooth.
Does it Hurt to Get a Root Canal?
Dr. Cambre is known for being an especially friendly and gentle dentist. We aim to make any treatment — even root canals — as comfortable as possible. During your appointment we will thoroughly numb your tooth before starting treatment, to avoid potential sensitivity or irritation while performing your endodontic procedure.
It’s important to note that getting a root canal helps to eliminate pain, not cause it. The toothache itself is due to inflamed nerve tissue inside of your tooth. Allowing the infection to go an extended period of time can make it more challenging to numb your tooth for treatment; if severe, we may recommend an antibiotic before your appointment to reduce the extent of the infection.
Dr. Stephen M. Cambre
Get In Touch With Us
Monday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Tuesday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Wednesday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Thursday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
(985) 643-2284
Eliminating tooth pain in one visit
What Happens During My Root Canal Procedure?
During your root canal treatment, Dr. Cambre will numb the tooth and create an opening to access the nerve (pulp) tissue inside. After all of the infected tissues are removed, the hollow nerve chamber is thoroughly cleaned, medicated, and sealed off to prevent bacteria from re-entering the tooth.
After a root canal, your tooth is more brittle and prone to chipping with everyday use. To protect it and keep things functioning as normal, you will also need a full coverage dental crown.
There are only two alternatives to getting a root canal: waiting and watching or having the tooth pulled. Since crowns or fillings don’t repair inside the nerve chamber, only a root canal can prevent eventual tooth loss.
The only way to know for certain if you need a root canal is to have your tooth examined by our Slidell, LA dentist. Contact Stephen M. Cambre, DDS today to schedule an exam and X-ray.
