Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures performed in the United States, yet they remain an enigma to many people. They are often associated with pain, discomfort, and anxiety, but the truth is that they are one of the most effective ways to save a severely decayed or damaged tooth. In this article, we will explore what root canals are, why they are needed, how they are performed, and what patients can expect from the procedure.
What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that is used to treat a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. It involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and filling them with a special material to prevent further infection. A tooth that has had a root canal is usually topped with a crown to protect it and restore its function.
Why Are Root Canals Needed?
Root canals are needed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged. This can happen as a result of severe decay, trauma, cracks, chips, or other factors. Without treatment, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and cause a painful abscess. Root canals are often the last line of defense for saving a tooth that would otherwise need to be removed.
How Are Root Canals Performed?
Root canals are typically performed by a dentist or endodontist near Forked River, who is a specialist in treating the pulp inside teeth. The procedure usually takes one to two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection. The first step is to numb the tooth and surrounding area with local anesthesia. The dentist then creates a small access hole in the top of the tooth and uses special instruments to remove the infected pulp and clean and shape the root canals. Once the canals are clean, they are filled with a special material called gutta-percha and sealed with a temporary filling. The patient will usually return for a follow-up appointment to have a permanent crown placed on the tooth.
What Can Patients Expect from a Root Canal?
The thought of getting a root canal can be scary for many people, but the procedure itself is typically not painful. Patients may feel pressure or mild discomfort during the procedure, but the area will be numb and most patients report feeling relief once the infected pulp has been removed. Following the procedure, patients may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days, but over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient to manage any pain. Most patients can return to normal activities the day after their root canal procedure.
Simply put, root canals are a common dental procedure that is used to save severely decayed or damaged teeth. The procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth and filling the canals with a special material to prevent further infection. Patients may experience some mild discomfort during and after the procedure, but the benefits of saving a tooth far outweigh any temporary discomfort. If you think you may need a root canal, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist about your options. A root canal could be the key to saving your smile!
Invisalign is a system of clear plastic aligners that are used to gradually move teeth into the desired position. The aligners are made from a comfortable, invisible material that is worn for 20-22 hours per day. Invisalign treatment usually takes 12-18 months to complete. Because they are nearly invisible, many patients prefer Invisalign over metal braces.
There are many benefits to choosing Invisalign over traditional braces. One of the biggest benefits is that the aligners are practically invisible when worn. This means that patients can straighten their teeth discreetly. Another benefit is that treatment times are generally shorter with Invisalign. Traditional braces often require treatment times of two years or more, while Invisalign can usually be completed within 12-18 months.
Bad breath can be an indication of poor oral hygiene and can lead to dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. It can also affect your social life and self-esteem. Chronic bad breath can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that requires medical attention. If you have persistent bad breath, it is important to visit your dentist to rule out any serious medical issues.
Your tongue can develop numerous ailments that reflect underlying medical conditions or oral hygiene issues. One of the more common conditions that affect the tongue is thrush, which is a fungal infection that causes painful and white sores on your tongue. Another common ailment is geographic tongue, which results in a map-like appearance on the surface of your tongue. Tongue sores may also be indicative of oral cancer or vitamin deficiencies. It is, therefore, crucial to seek professional advice if you experience persistent tongue sores, lesions, or any other irregularities.
There are several types of mouth sores, but the most common ones include canker sores, cold sores, and fever blisters. Canker sores are small, white or yellowish, round or oval-shaped sores that occur inside the mouth, while cold sores and fever blisters are groups of tiny, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips, chin, or cheeks. They are caused by different things, though.
In 1745, Toms River – then called Dover Township – became part of Burlington County, with the main industries being agriculture and fishing. In 1848, Ocean County was officially formed from parts of Burlington and Monmouth counties. Growth continued steadily throughout the 1800s as new businesses opened and the community prospered.