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Root Canal Therapy


Endodontic therapy or root canal therapy is a dental procedure employed to remove the pulp chamber of the tooth and fill it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. A root canal is typically performed when the tooth cannot be filled or restored by any other means because the decay has reached the nerve of the tooth or the tooth has become infected.

Root Canals

Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures performed throughout the nation. Root canals involve removing the infected pulp and nerves of a tooth, followed by a cleaning and sealing of the infected tooth. At Oak Ridge Dental Arts, our skilled dentists are experienced in root canal procedures and knowledgeable about the conditions under which it might be necessary to have one.

What is a Root Canal?

Endodontic treatment, also known as a root canal, is a procedure designed to save and repair a badly infected or decayed tooth. The nerve and pulp of a tooth can become irritated and infected as a result of cracks, chips, or other trauma to the tooth. When this occurs, it is important to treat the tooth before it becomes abscessed. Root canal infections can lead to bone loss around the root’s tip as well as swelling to other areas.

When is a Root Canal Necessary?

In determining if a root canal is necessary, the multi-specialty team of dentists at Oak Ridge Dental Arts will first perform an examination during which the following symptoms will be closely scrutinized:

  • Chewing or pressure causes severe tooth pain.
  • Increased heat and cold sensitivity.
  • Tooth discoloration.
  • Swelling and tenderness of surrounding gum tissue.
  • There is a possibility that no symptoms may be present. As a result, it is vital to have regular check-ups in case there is infected pulp present in a patient.

What Does a Root Canal Procedure Involve?

Root canal procedures may require multiple office visits depending on severity. First, x-rays will be taken to get a good idea of what the infection looks like. The patient will be numbed through a local anesthesia. The dentist uses a rubber dam throughout the procedure to keep the area around the tooth dry. An access hole is then drilled into the tooth so the dentist can remove debris and decayed nerve tissue. Once the tooth is flushed out and cleaned, it can be filled and sealed off.

Request an Appointment

Root canals are an important treatment for patients suffering pain and discomfort caused by an infected tooth. If you think you may need a root canal, please contact Oak Ridge Dental Arts with your questions or concerns today. We have 8 convenient locations in the Charlotte area to ensure that all of your dental needs are met.