Root Canals in Atlanta, Ga

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes the infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth, followed by thorough cleaning, disinfection, and sealing of the tooth's interior. At Complete Care Dental, we typically perform this treatment to alleviate severe tooth pain, resolve infection, and preserve a tooth that might otherwise require extraction. Root canals are known for their effectiveness in saving natural teeth and relieving patients from the discomfort associated with dental pulp issues. 

The pulp inside the tooth can become damaged due to trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks, chips, and repeated dental procedures. When this occurs, the pulp tissue dies and becomes infected. This infection can spread through the root tip and the supporting bone around the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can cause an abscess to form. An abscess is an accumulation of pus that forms at the end of the tooth’s root. If the condition is not treated, it can damage the bone around the tooth and cause swelling that can spread to other parts of the body.

Signs You Need a Root Canal

Persistent Toothache

A persistent, throbbing toothache is often the initial symptom of a dental problem that may require a root canal in Atlanta, GA. This pain can range from mild discomfort to severe agony and is usually triggered by hot or cold stimuli, chewing, or pressure on the affected tooth. If your toothache persists for more than a day or two, it's crucial to consult our dentist.

Sensitivity to Temperature

Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, especially when the sensation lingers after removing the stimulus, can indicate pulp inflammation or infection. This sensitivity can manifest as a sharp, shooting pain or a dull ache, depending on the severity of the issue.

Swelling and Tenderness

As the infection in the tooth's pulp chamber progresses, you may notice swelling or tenderness in the surrounding gum tissue. The area may become red, inflamed, and painful to touch. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck may also accompany dental infections.

The Procedure of Root Canal Treatment

A root canal is a treatment performed when the tooth's nerve becomes infected or inflamed. The pulp inside the tooth can become damaged due to trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks, chips, and repeated dental procedures. When this occurs, the pulp tissue dies and becomes infected. This infection can spread through the root tip and the supporting bone around the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can cause an abscess to form. An abscess is an accumulation of pus that forms at the end of the tooth’s root. If the condition is not treated, it can damage the bone around the tooth and cause swelling that can spread to other parts of the body.

To perform a root canal, the dentist in Atlanta, Ga, will first numb the area with a local anesthetic. Then, the dentist will remove the diseased pulp from the tooth. Once the pulp is removed, the dentist will clean and shape the inside of the tooth. Next, the dentist will fill the tooth with gutta-percha, which is a rubber-like material. Finally, the dentist will place a crown on the tooth to protect it from further damage.

Root canal therapy is a dental procedure designed to save and restore a tooth that might otherwise be lost due to infection or damage. If you experience persistent tooth pain or other symptoms, contact Complete Care Dental at 1421 Peachtree Street NE Suite A, Atlanta, GA 30309, or call (470) 408-5161.