.webp)
At Ballantyne Family Dental, we specialize in alleviating pain and preserving your natural teeth through expert root canal therapy and retreatment. Our skilled dental team, led by experienced professionals, uses the latest techniques and technology to ensure the best outcomes for our patients in Charlotte, NC, and surrounding areas.
Understanding Root Canal Therapy
Introduction to Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is a vital procedure designed to save teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted. When the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged, root canal therapy is performed to remove the affected tissue, thereby saving the tooth and preventing further oral health issues.
Why Root Canal Therapy Is Necessary
Root canal therapy is typically required when a tooth's pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or damaged. This can occur due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth. Ignoring such conditions can lead to intense pain, abscess formation, and even more severe health complications.
Identifying Candidates for Root Canal Therapy
Signs that you may need a root canal include severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, tenderness to touch and chewing, discoloration of the tooth, and swelling in nearby gums. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with us for a thorough examination and diagnosis.
The Root Canal Therapy Process
Preparation and Procedure
Our root canal procedure begins with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. We then carefully remove the infected or inflamed pulp, clean and shape the inside of the root canal, and finally, fill and seal the space to prevent reinfection. For most patients, this procedure relieves the pain they were feeling and saves the tooth.
Post-Procedure Care and Outcomes
After root canal therapy, your tooth may feel sensitive for a few days, but this discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. We might recommend placing a crown on the treated tooth to protect it and restore its full function. Following the procedure, you can return to biting, chewing, and smiling with ease.
Root Canal Retreatment Explained
Introduction to Root Canal Retreatment
In rare cases, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy may not heal as expected, or new problems could arise, necessitating retreatment. Our team at Ballantyne Family Dental is experienced in evaluating and performing root canal retreatments to address these issues effectively.
Why Retreatment Might Be Needed
Root canal retreatment may be necessary due to complicated canal anatomy not treated during the initial procedure, delayed placement of the tooth restoration, or a breakdown of the inner sealing material over time, allowing bacteria to recontaminate the inner aspects of the tooth.
The Root Canal Retreatment Process
Identifying Candidates for Retreatment
Through careful examination and X-rays, our dental team will determine if root canal retreatment is the best course of action for you. Symptoms similar to those necessitating the original root canal, such as pain and sensitivity, often indicate the need for retreatment.
Procedure for Root Canal Retreatment
Root canal retreatment involves reopening the tooth to remove the previous filling materials, thoroughly cleaning the canals, and examining the interior of the tooth for any further issues. After addressing any problems, the tooth is refilled and sealed, and a new crown may be placed to restore full functionality.
Ensuring Your Dental Health
If you're experiencing discomfort or have concerns about a previously treated tooth, don't hesitate to reach out. At Ballantyne Family Dental, we're dedicated to ensuring your comfort and oral health through every step of your dental care journey.
Contact us today at 704-200-2948 or schedule your visit online to discuss whether root canal therapy or retreatment is right for you. Let our expert team at Ballantyne Family Dental restore your oral health and peace of mind with compassionate, professional care.
Want to schedule an appointment?
