Root Canal Treatment
We treat and save many of our patients’ teeth with our root canal treatment procedure. This procedure aims to restore an infected tooth and protect it from further bacteria growth. When you have an infected tooth, the earlier you seek treatment, the more likely that we are able to save the natural tooth and restore your smile. At Dr. Jacob Stein’s practice, we offer root canal treatment in the Northborough, Massachusetts area.
What is Root Canal Treatment?
Root Canal Treatment is a procedure in which bacteria is removed from the inside of an infected tooth. After cleaning out the bacteria, a rubber like material called gutta percha is used to fill in the hole and the tooth is sealed to prevent further decay. A root canal treatment can be completed in one or two dental appointments and, contrary to popular belief, is not painful. The pain that is often associated with a root canal treatment stems from the infection itself, not the procedure used to treat the infection.
What causes an infected tooth?
Teeth become infected for several reasons. The following are some of the most common causes of infection:
- A chip or crack in the tooth that introduces bacteria inside the tooth
- deep, untreated decay
- multiple dental procedures on one tooth
- bad dental work
How do I Know if I have an infected tooth?
Having an infected tooth can be painful but can also lead to serious dental and health problems if left untreated. Below are several symptoms that suggest that you have an infected tooth:
- swelling around the tooth
- pain around the infected tooth
- a tooth that is discolored
- pus filled sores around the tooth
- pain while chewing
- sensitivity to heat or cold
- swollen lymph nodes
What to expect during root canal treatment
- During the first stage of a root canal treatment, Dr. Jacob Stein will examine the infected tooth. The tooth and surrounding areas will be numbed. Then, he will drill a small hole in the crown to access the inside of the tooth.
- After the hole is drilled, Dr. Jacob Stein will use files to clean out the inside of the tooth. Once the bacteria is removed, the tooth is filled with gutta percha in order to prevent future bacteria growth.
- The last stage of the root canal treatment requires placing a seal over the infected tooth. In some cases, this step requires a separate dental appointment. A seal is needed for additional protection and to restore the tooth’s strength and appearance.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of an infected tooth, visit Dr. Jacob Stein’s practice or call us today at (508) 393-8589 to get more information on root canal treatment in Northborough, Massachusetts.