When a tooth becomes significantly decayed or damaged, a root canal may be necessary to save it. While you may associate this dental procedure with discomfort, it is a very common treatment that usually entails minimal complications. As a trusted dentist in Coweta, OK, Allen S. Braumiller Jr. DDS, PC offers the following information to patients slated to undergo a root canal.

What Can I Expect During a Root Canal?

Local Anesthesia Is Applied

Before getting started, your dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth using a local anesthetic. The numbing agent is applied using a needle, and it’s common for patients to feel a slight pinch. The tooth is then isolated using a sheet of rubber, which will ensure it remains clean while the dentist is working.

Damaged Tissue Is Removed

Once your tooth is properly numbed, tissue will be removed using a small drill. The pulp inside the tooth can become damaged due to extensive decay and will need to be cleaned out as a result. It’s also common for a chamber to be shaped within the tooth after the tissue is removed to accommodate the next step.

The Tooth Is Filled

After the tissue is removed and the inner chamber of the tooth is rinsed and dried, the dentist will then fill it with a natural latex product. This material gives the tooth stability to prevent it from breaking in the future. The access point will be closed in anticipation of a new crown, which tops off the tooth. In most cases, the crown is placed at a subsequent appointment a few weeks later.

Whether you need a root canal to address a decaying tooth or want a cosmetic procedure to beautify your smile, Allen S. Braumiller Jr. DDS, PC and his skilled dental team are ready to assist you. They offer more than 33 years of experience, which can help you maintain a healthy smile for life. Visit their website to see a listing of oral hygiene FAQs or call (918) 486-6516 to schedule an appointment at the Coweta office today.