Root Canal
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Richard D. Creese, DDS
General & Cosmetic Dentist located in San Francisco, CA
Men and women who learn they need a root canal often become anxious over the procedure in anticipation. A root canal doesn’t have to be a stressful, uncomfortable experience when you visit Richard D. Creese, DDS. You'll be hard-pressed to find a more experienced dentist in Union Square of San Francisco, California. He performs root canal procedures all the time. If you’re concerned about having a root canal, call the office or schedule an appointment online.
Root Canal Q & A
Why might I need a root canal?
The goal of a root canal is to alleviate pain and save an infected tooth. Dr. Creese eliminates the bacteria and any dead or dying tissue from inside your tooth if it becomes severely infected. Doing so lets them get rid of your pain and preserve your tooth.
What leads to an infection in the tooth root?
Roots and tissue inside your teeth can become infected with bacteria as a result of an injury to the tooth or from a cavity that is left untreated. If you don’t visit the dentist, the infected tissue may spread into the root or pulp of the tooth. This can cause a host of other problems if the infection spreads any further, so be sure to seek treatment.
What does an infected tooth look and feel like?
If you don't seek treatment for the infected tooth rather immediately, you might experience a significant amount of discomfort. Some typical symptoms of an infected tooth include:
- Inflamed gums
- Tooth soreness while chewing
- Intense tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Unpleasant breath
- Pus coming from around the tooth
- Painful throbbing in your jaw or mouth
- Tooth darkening in color
- A small pimple-like bump on your gum
What is the procedure for a root canal?
Typically, Dr. Creese can take care of your tooth in one or two visits. First, it may be necessary to take an X-ray to determine the degree of harm to the tooth requiring the root canal.
Dr. Creese will use a needle to numb the region and make sure you don't feel anything during the procedure. Sometimes they put a dental dam, or a little piece of rubber, on your tooth to preserve its cleanliness and protect it from bacteria during the procedure. After your tooth gets numbed, Dr. Creese forms a minuscule hole in your tooth to reach the diseased area within the root.
Then, Dr. Creese takes away the damaged and unhealthy pulp using small files and sprays the area with water to remove debris. After all diseased matter is gone, Dr. Creese either seals the tooth or inserts a non-permanent filling to shield the tooth until you return for a permanent crown.
If you show any signs or symptoms of a tooth infection, be sure to call Richard D. Creese, DDS, or schedule a consultation online.
