This treatment is typically recommended to patients with severely infected or decayed teeth. When injury occurs to the pulp or nerve of a tooth, it’s not always possible to reverse the damage. A root canal procedure works by cleaning out the pulp and nerve of the tooth, filling it, and sealing it to protect it from bacteria. A root canaled tooth, in combination with proper dental hygiene, can last a lifetime.
Having a root canal today is not like the “stories” you hear from 30 years ago! Every year, over 15 million root canals are performed across the country. A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures performed by Dr. Linger. A root canal can save your teeth and save you from needing bridges or dental implants later on.
Under a local anesthesia (you may choose our sedation dentistry as well!), Dr. Linger safely removes the diseased pulp of the infected tooth. The inside of the tooth is then cleaned and sealed. If this is not performed, you will eventually lose the tooth because of decay and disease. With the infected pulp removed, that tooth will no longer have sensitivity to heat or cold. The tooth will continue to have a healthy life when taken care of properly.
There are several symptoms, some obvious and others not, that may help you determine when you should see Dr. Linger about your concerns. These symptoms include:
If you have any of these symptoms, please call our office to schedule an appointment to see Dr. Linger. Only after an examination can Dr. Linger accurately diagnose your condition and provide a plan for treatment.
