A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth whose pulp and nerve tissue become irreversibly inflamed, badly decayed, or infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. There are many reasons a tooth's pulp can become inflamed enough to require a root canal treatment:
- deep decay
- repeated dental procedures
- large fillings
- a crack or chip in the tooth
- trauma from persistent grinding or clenching.
At Oasis Dental, we know root canal treatments have a reputation for being painful, but most patients will agree that, with adequate local anesthesia, the procedure is no more uncomfortable that having a filling placed. Still, Dr. Linda Gherman will take the time to explain the procedure and try to ease your fears. She has a vast experience with root canals and most cases will be treated in-office. If a case appears to be uncommonly difficult, she will refer you to an endodontist, who is a dentist specializing in diseases of the dental pulp.