Root Canal
When bacteria enter the pulp of a tooth, an infection can develop. This can spread to adjacent teeth and impact your oral health.
A root canal can eliminate infection at its source by removing the inflamed nerves, tissues, and blood vessels from inside the tooth.
At Parkway Dental in Albuquerque, NM, we use advanced technology to provide comfortable and effective treatment.
When Is Root Canal Therapy Necessary?
There are several different symptoms that could indicate a root canal is necessary. These include:
- Pain that worsens when chewing
- Sensitivity to heat and cold
- Fistulas (pimples) on the gums
- Tender or swollen gums
- Deep dental cavity
- Large tooth fracture
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How Does a Root Canal Infection Affect My Health?
Even though the problem begins in the pulp, it can spread to the roots of the teeth as well as the jawbone and surrounding areas. Left untreated, the issue can take a serious toll on your health. A root canal can treat the condition and reduce the risk of future problems.
Benefits of Root Canal Treatment
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Most patients mistakenly believe root canal therapy is a painful dental procedure. In actuality, the greatest amount of pain is caused by the irritated pulp. At our Albuquerque dental practice, we use sedation when necessary to ensure the root canal procedure is as comfortable as possible. Most patients report no more discomfort than receiving a dental filling.
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When a tooth becomes infected, the only treatment option besides a root canal is extraction. If the root canal infection isn't properly treated, the bacteria can spread and result in tooth loss. By removing the infected tissues, your dentist can preserve as much natural structure as possible so you can maintain your appearance and chewing function.
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A root canal infection not only affects surrounding teeth, but it can also cause the jawbone to deteriorate. This erosion can lead to a loss of bone density and cause a host of other dental health problems. Oral bacteria can even be carried to other areas of the body via the bloodstream. Root canal treatment helps stop the problem before it worsens.
Find out what our New Mexico patients are saying...
"Everyone at Parkway Dental Is So Warm and Welcoming." Read Our 5-Star Reviews
Kendra Myers
2020
Everyone at Parkway Dental is so warm and welcoming. The staff is knowledgeable and professional and they provide the highest level of care!
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Anita Keller
2020
As usual my recent appointments were handled with courtesy and professionalism. I knew there were friendly smiles behind those masks.
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About the Root Canal Procedure
At Parkway Dental, we have a number of advanced diagnostic tools at our disposal. Digital x-rays, which involve minimal radiation, allow
Dr. Michael Haight to determine if root canal treatment is necessary to treat your condition. Here are the steps to expect during treatment.
Initial Consultation
Root canal procedures can be completed in one or two visits, depending on your specific needs.
Accessing the Root Canals
First, the pulp must be accessed. To do this, a small hole is created in the top of the tooth. This allows your Albuquerque, NM, dentist to see the problem clearly.
Cleaning the Root Canals
Next, your dentist carefully removes the nerves and blood vessels from the root canals and pulp chamber. All infected tissue and decay is removed.
Disinfecting the Surfaces
Once the necrotic tissues have been removed, the internal tooth surfaces are thoroughly disinfected.
Filling the Root Canals
Once the tooth surfaces have been cleaned, we will fill the root canals with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.
Sealing the Tooth
Your dentist may be able to seal the tooth with a simple dental filling. In some cases, your dentist may also recommend a dental crown.
