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Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Root Canal


This month marks 100 years since the opening of the Panama Canal. While the Panama Canal is integral to worldwide shipping, a root canal can be integral to your everyday comfort.

Sometimes a cavity is just too deep to be fixed and may require a root canal. Root canals are necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or diseased. The pulp contains the blood vessels and the nerves of the tooth, which run like a thread down into the root. The pulp tissue can die when it’s infected or injured. If you don't remove it, your tooth gets infected and you could lose it. During a root canal treatment, the dentist removes the pulp, and the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Your dentist may then place a crown over the tooth to help make it stronger and protect it.

Causes of an infected pulp could include:
  • a deep cavity
  • repeated dental procedures
  • a cracked or broken tooth
  • injury to the tooth (even if there’s not a visible crack or chip)
If you continue to care for your teeth and gums with daily brushing and flossing your restored tooth could last a lifetime. However, regular checkups are necessary; a tooth without its nerve can still develop cavities or gum disease. Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to three visits. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile!

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