At Parker and Pennington Dentistry, our goal is to provide the very best care for our patients that promotes the overall wellness of their oral health. One of the many ways we do this is to return your mouth back to full function after trauma or decay. When the outer layer of the tooth, also known as the enamel, experiences decay, we typically recommend a filling to remove the cavity. You might be surprised to learn that your tooth also has an interior. The interior of the tooth is called the pulp, and when it becomes infected, we recommend a root canal.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is the final attempt to save the tooth structure before an extraction is recommended. The process is much simpler than you might expect. The typical depiction and expectation of a root canal is a lengthy treatment that will leave you in a state of discomfort—but that is not the case. Thanks to the advancements in technology and the expertise of Dr. Parker and Dr. Pennington, the procedure is quick and leaves no discomfort.
Before the treatment begins, we will anesthetize the area so you are comfortable and don’t feel anything during the procedure. During a root canal, the infected pulp on the inside of the tooth is removed. We then clean and disinfect the area before filling it with a natural polymer substance. Depending on the patient, we may finish the procedure by placing a crown over the tooth for protection.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
The best way to avoid a root canal is to maintain regular hygiene examinations in our office every six months. We are able to inspect the mouth and remedy minor issues that may lead to a root canal if delayed or avoided. These are some warning signs that can indicate a root canal may be in your future:
- Redness or swelling around the gumline
- Discomfort when biting
- Sensitivity to heat or cold
- Unexplained discomfort
If you experience any of the warning signs mentioned above or notice anything unusual with your oral health, we recommend calling our office located in Jacksonville Beach, FL to schedule an appointment. We want to help give you the dental care you need for your optimal oral health.
