Root Canal

Root canal treatment are necessary when the pulp layer of a tooth becomes infected. Infection can lead to the loss of a tooth so it is necessary to remove the infection with root canal therapy. The procedure is generally comfortable and saves the natural tooth, prevents the spread of infection, and returns the smile to complete health.

The Procedure

Before the procedure begins, the area is completely numbed using a local anesthetic. Once the area is numbed, a rubber dam is placed around the infected tooth to protect the mouth and to prevent anything from falling into the back of the throat.

In order to access the infected tooth pulp, an opening is made through the top of the tooth to get down into the pulp chamber. A tiny instrument, called a dental file, is then carefully used to clean out the infected tissue and to shape the root canals to receive a filling. X-rays may be done to ensure that all of the infected pulp is removed before the filling is placed.

After the infected pulp is removed, the restoration is placed. In most case a crown is placed to protect and strengthen the tooth. However, if the tooth is severely broken down, it may be necessary to start by building up the tooth with a post and core.

Oral Surgery

Dental extractions are performed for a variety of reasons including tooth decay, injury, and for orthodontic treatment. Extractions are a relatively common procedure in most dental offices. The difficulty of the procedure varies depending on the case and the patient, however anesthesia is used to numb the area and prevent pain during the procedure.

The Procedure

Types of Extractions

There are two forms of extraction: simple and surgical extractions.

Simple extractions are performed on teeth that can be seen in the mouth. They are removed due to decay or injury and are usually performed under a local anesthetic. During this procedure, the doctor will grasp the tooth with forceps and loosen it by moving the forceps back and forth. The loosened tooth will then easily come out.

Surgical extractions are performed on teeth that have broken off at the gum line or that have not yet come in (ie: wisdom teeth). To remove the tooth, the doctor will have to cut and pull back the gums, which allows access to the area. This is necessary so that they can see the tooth that needs to be removed. Surgical extractions are usually done with local anesthesia but a general anesthesia is sometimes preferred.