Prevent decay or infection from causing tooth loss by getting a root canal.

Are you experiencing dental pain? If so, this could be an indication that you are suffering from an infection or severe decay. Your Holland dentist Dr. Todd Brower will fill the tooth in minor cases, but when there is extensive damage, we will need to perform a root canal in Holland, MI.

What is a root canal?

A root canal is an endodontic procedure in which your Holland dentist will remove the pulp, or inner structure of the tooth. The pulp, which contains nerves, blood vessels and tissue, is the “feeling” area of the tooth. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged due to decay, infection or trauma, it will need to be removed.

When might my Holland dentist recommend a root canal?

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity or dental pain, then you’ll want to come in right away for a proper diagnosis. Dental pain comes in all different forms, but those who experience severe or constant pain may be dealing with decay or an infection that has reached the inside of the tooth, or the pulp. When this happens, the only way to treat the problem is with a root canal. A root canal is the best course of action for preserving a significantly damaged tooth and for preventing the tooth from requiring an extraction.

What does getting a root canal entail?

While you may have heard stories about root canals being painful, this is simply not true. Your Holland dentist will apply a local anesthesia prior to your procedure so you don’t experience discomfort. The main purpose of the procedure is to eliminate the pain you are already experiencing, not cause more. Getting a root canal is really no more involved than getting a cavity filled.

Once the anesthesia has taken effect, we will drill through the hard enamel of the tooth until we reach the pulp. Then we will carefully remove the diseased tissue and disinfect the inside of the tooth. After the tooth has been thoroughly cleaned, we will begin to rebuild it from the inside out using a special material. We will also decide whether a dental crown will be required to help strengthen the tooth.

Don’t let tooth pain get the better of your smile. Protect one of your most important features by seeing your Holland dentist right away. Call Ottawa Smiles Dental today!