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A root canal can sound scary, but it’s actually a pretty common procedure. About 55% of people have had at least one root canal. In fact, every dental office near you in Miami has at least one patient today getting a root canal!
Of course, this doesn’t make them less scary, but understanding the process involved can at least help lessen your anxiety about them.
A root canal is a dental procedure for treating a tooth with an infected pulp, which is the soft tissue at the tooth’s core. This pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues, so it causes severe pain when it becomes inflamed. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause severe damage to the tooth, surrounding teeth, and even the bone and gums.
You probably need a root canal if you notice any of the following symptoms:
The first step to the surgery is the evaluation. When you arrive at the dentist’s clinic, you’ll go through an examination (often involving X-rays) to determine the damage. If a root canal is considered necessary, you’ll be given a local anesthesia shot so you don’t feel any pain during the process.
Now, the dentist makes a small opening in the tooth’s crown and removes the damaged or infected pulp from the inside. The interior of the tooth is cleaned and shaped and then filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The tooth is filled and sealed to prevent future infection.
Typically, a tooth that undergoes a root canal will need a dental crown or bridge to enhance strength and appearance. Your expert in general dentistry in Miami will let you know if this is necessary.
If you suspect you may need a root canal procedure and are looking for a great dentist near you in Miami, Jennifer Lopez Dental is here for you! Let us help you preserve your smile and keep your teeth healthy and strong for years.
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Here at Jennifer Lopez Dental our friendly atmosphere and gentle to the touch approach are unparalleled, come take a virtual tour of our brand new state-of-the-art dental office!