Save Your Tooth, Restore Your Smile with Endodontic Therapy

Root canals are often viewed in a negative light due to being associated with pain and discomfort. However, root canal therapy can be a lifesaver when it comes to treating an infected tooth. Severe tooth infections can lead to premature tooth loss, which can ruin your smile. Endodontic therapy cleanses your tooth of infection, repairs the damage, and restores its usefulness to preserve the beauty of your smile. This makes a visit to Your Smile Dental Wellness Center in McDonough, Georgia, well worthwhile! 

Understanding Root Canal Therapy

Your tooth is composed of three layers: an outer layer (enamel), a middle layer (dentin), and the inner layer (pulp), which contains blood vessels, cells, and nerves that nourish your tooth. The pulp is, in essence, the life-giving force of your tooth. Damage to the pulp of your tooth by decay or oral infections can cut off your tooth’s blood supply, causing it to weaken and die. At this stage, root canal treatment is the only way to save your tooth from extraction.  

Through endodontic therapy, Dr. Yvonne Caton-Hospedales can rid your tooth of infectious tissues to restore its health and usefulness. Getting rid of the infection will eliminate your painful symptoms and make your tooth whole again. 

Tooth infections can cause: 

• Painful chewing
• Prolonged tooth sensitivity
• Gum tenderness and swelling
• Tooth discoloration or darkening

If your dentist recommends root canal treatment, you can take heart in knowing that your tooth can be restored to preserve your smile.  

What to Expect from Endodontic Therapy

Root canal therapy is done under anesthesia, so you feel no pain or discomfort during the procedure. Dr. Caton-Hospedales will drill your tooth to gain access to the pulp and infection within. We’ll then remove the pulp and infected tissues and thoroughly cleanse the tooth chamber and canals to curtail the spread of harmful bacteria to healthy teeth. Next, we’ll seal your tooth to prevent future infection and restore its function with a dental crown. Crowning your tooth fortifies its compromised structure so you can use it as usual again.

The Benefits of Endodontic Treatment

Root canal therapy can relieve painful symptoms, restore your tooth’s health and function, and save it from extraction to preserve your smile. You’ll be able to eat normally and enjoy all your favorite foods. Your tooth will look and feel new. A root canal can save you the expense of replacing that tooth in the future. 

Pain After Root Canal

It’s not unusual to experience mild pain or swelling as you’re recovering from your treatment. You can manage this pain with OTC medication. Gargling with salt water and applying a cold compress to your face can also help minimize these symptoms. We recommend that you avoid smoking, alcoholic drinks, and eating hard foods during your recovery. If the pain persists, give us a call so we can review your condition.

To schedule an appointment for endodontic therapy, contact Dr. Yvonne Caton-Hospedales from Your Smile Dental Wellness Center in McDonough, GA, at (770) 727-3378.