Endodontics (Root Canal Treatment) in Knoxville, TN
Endodontics is a treatment that deals with the nerve and blood supply of the teeth and is most commonly called a root canal. You might think that a tooth is a solid chunk of bone, but it is actually made up of layers. The innermost region of the tooth is called the pulp. This area contains the nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissues that nourish the tooth as it develops. If the infection reaches this area, you will need special treatment to restore your oral health. You can find quality non-molar endodontic treatment at TLC Dental Care in Knoxville, TN.
Why Do I Need Endodontic Treatment?
Endodontic treatment might become necessary if a cavity has deeply infected a tooth and threatens the inside, the dental pulp. If the decay reaches this area, it could cause an abscess to form or lead to a more serious infection in the bone surrounding the tooth. Endodontic treatment clears away the infected parts of the tooth and replaces the lost structure to restore the function of the tooth. This procedure is more commonly referred to as a root canal, and while it has a bad reputation as a very painful procedure, techniques have changed and you can expect to have no more discomfort than having a filling.
What is the Procedure for Endodontic Treatment?
This procedure will require numbing the tooth for comfort during the treatment, so your dentist at TLC Dental Care will first administer some form of anesthesia. If dental anxiety is an issue, you can talk to your dentist about additional forms of sedation, as well. The inside of the tooth will be accessed through a hole that will be made at the top of the tooth. Your dentist will then remove the infected dental pulp and clean out the canal. It will also be smoothed and reshaped. A biocompatible material will be placed into the canal to replace the tooth structure that has been removed and to restore function to your tooth. Teeth that have received endodontic treatment are usually capped with a dental crown, which will need to be placed during the following appointment.
If you have suffered from severe tooth decay and the health of your dental pulp is at risk, visit us at TLC Dental Care for endodontic treatment in Knoxville, TN. We only perform endodontic treatment on non-molars.