The pulp of your tooth is extremely important. It contains the blood vessels and nerves that keep your tooth alive and healthy. If your tooth is damaged, either from a blow to your face, or because of disease or decay, there is a chance that bacteria can work its way into the pulp of your tooth, causing pain, swelling and other potential health complications. However, it’s important to remember that while the pulp is important, the structure of the tooth can be preserved without it, which is where a root canal comes in. Root canals have gotten a bad reputation over the years. But the fact is that a root canal can save a tooth that in years gone by would have required extraction.
After numbing your tooth, your dentist will access the pulp with a small drill. The dentist will then use an instrument to extract the diseased pulp. Afterwards, the dentist will rinse the tooth chamber with an an antiseptic to remove any leftover pulp and neutralize any remaining bacteria. The dentist will enlarge the root chamber and then insert a substance called gutta percha, which will fill in the space left by the pulp. After placing a temporary seal on your tooth, your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to check your progress and discuss placing a permanent crown on your tooth.
Your dentist may give a prescription for pain or swelling or an antibiotic. You will need to take any prescribed medication as directed by your dentist. If you experience persistent pain, or you have swelling, chills, nausea, experience shaking or develop a fever, contact your dentist right away.
If you have a tooth that has been giving you trouble, you should make time to visit with Dr. Clell M. Morris. To make an appointment at Forsyth Dental Center in Forsyth, Georgia, call phone. We’ll be happy to relieve your pain, and strengthen your smile!