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If you're nervous about an upcoming root canal, you're not alone. Like some dental procedures, root canals can make you anxious, especially if you don't fully understand the process. However, root canals are a routine treatment your dentist likely performs every day, and educating yourself on the ins and outs of the procedure will ease your mind before your next visit. Here’s what you need to know. 

What Is a Root Canal?

Endodontic therapy, commonly known as a root canal, is a dental procedure designed to eliminate bacteria, protecting your teeth from decay and infection. A root canal is not a treatment, but the natural cavity within the center of your tooth that contains nerve tissue, blood vessels, and other cells known as the pulp. Root canal treatments can help save a badly damaged or infected tooth by preventing reinfection. 

When Do You Need One?

dentistYour dentist may recommend a root canal if you have a cracked tooth, deep cavity, or issues from a previous filling. You may also require a root canal if you frequently experience sensitivity to hot and cold sensations, severe pain while chewing or biting, swollen or tender gums, or deep decay and darkening of the gums. 

What Happens During the Procedure?

Similar to a routine filling, root canals can typically be completed in one to two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection and condition of your tooth. Before the procedure, your dentist will provide a local anesthetic to prevent any discomfort.

They will make a small access hole on the surface of your tooth, then remove infected pulp tissue from within the root canal. Next, they will clean, shape, and decontaminate the hollow area before filling the hole with a rubber-like adhesive cement. Finally, your dentist will apply a crown or filling to protect your tooth from further decay.

 

If you need a root canal procedure, visit an experienced dentist that you can trust. Dental Clinic of Onalaska in La Crosse County, WI has over 25 years of experience in dental care, and their skilled team provides a variety of routine and cosmetic dental procedures in a friendly and comfortable environment. Contact them today at (608) 783-3341 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services. 

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