Root Canal Therapy in Peterborough
Root canal therapy has earned a reputation for being a daunting dental procedure. At Lotus Family Dental, we believe it’s time to change that perception. With modern techniques, root canal therapy can be a comfortable, pain-relieving treatment that helps save your natural tooth. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or have been told you need root canal therapy in Peterborough, our experienced team is here to provide you with the highest level of care.
What is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy, or endodontic treatment, is a procedure that removes the infected or damaged tissue inside your tooth. This tissue, called pulp, contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that help your tooth grow. When the pulp gets infected, it can cause intense pain and, if not treated, can result in losing the tooth.
Contrary to common belief, a root canal doesn’t cause pain—it relieves it. By removing the infection and sealing the tooth, we can help you avoid more serious complications.
Signs You Might Need Root Canal Therapy
How do you know if you need a root canal? While it’s always best to consult with a dentist, there are a few signs you should look out for:
- Persistent tooth pain, especially when chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the source is removed
- Swelling or tenderness around your gums
- Darkening of the tooth
- A small bump or pimple on the gum near the affected tooth
If you detect any of these symptoms, you should seek treatment right once. Early action can stop the spread of illness and keep your tooth healthy. If you’re looking for root canal therapy near you, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for an evaluation.
What to Expect During the Process?
At our local dental practice, we make sure you are comfortable throughout the entire process. Here’s what happens during a typical root canal procedure:
- Numbing the Area: We’ll start by numbing the tooth and surrounding area so you don’t feel any pain. Most patients compare the sensation to getting a standard filling.
- Cleaning the Infected Pulp: Once the area is numb, we create a small opening in the tooth to access the infected pulp. Using specialized tools, our dentist near you will carefully remove the damaged tissue and clean the root canals.
- Sealing the Tooth: After cleaning, we fill the space with a rubber-like material to prevent further infection. Finally, we seal the tooth with a temporary filling.
- Restoring the Tooth: In most cases, we recommend placing a crown over the treated tooth to restore its strength and function. The crown also protects the tooth from future damage.
The time it takes to complete root canal therapy varies depending on the complexity of the case. In most instances, the procedure can be completed in one to two visits. Simple cases often require a single visit, while more complex cases may need a follow-up appointment for the final restoration.
During your consultation, our dentist will provide a more detailed treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy in Peterborough offers several advantages that can save your tooth and improve your oral health. Some of the key benefits include:
- Preservation of Your Natural Tooth: Instead of extracting the tooth, root canal therapy allows us to keep your natural tooth intact, which is always the best option for maintaining your smile.
- Pain Relief: If you’ve been experiencing tooth pain due to infection, a root canal can bring much-needed relief.
- Prevention of Further Infection: By removing the infected pulp and sealing the tooth, we stop the infection from spreading to other teeth or surrounding tissues.
- Improved Function: After the procedure and restoration with a crown, your tooth will function just like a natural tooth, allowing you to eat and speak normally.
Ready to Restore Your Oral Health?
Don’t ignore tooth pain or sensitivity—these could be signs that you need a root canal. At Lotus Family Dental, we provide gentle, effective root canal therapy to relieve pain and protect your smile. Our dentist in Peterborough is dedicated to making your experience as comfortable as possible.
Call Lotus Family Dental today at 705-745-4000 to schedule your consultation. We look forward to helping you restore your smile!
