Pain is debilitating. People can't eat, have difficulty speaking, and have a hard time doing everyday activities. Dr. Michael McCarthy in Camarillo, CA, provides patients with root canal therapy to help eliminate this pain.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is an endodontic procedure that treats the inside of the tooth. Your dentist specializes in treating serious dental problems to prevent further harm and as a preventative measure.
Tooth Anatomy
The tooth has several layers. The first layer of the tooth is the white protective enamel layer. The hard enamel covers another hard layer called dentin and the most inner layer is a soft tissue called the pulp.
The pulp contains blood vessels and nerves and connective tissue, when infected, causes pain. While we are still growing during our developmental years, the pulp, which extends from the crown of the tooth to the tip of the roots, nourishes our tooth and surrounding tissue. However, once we've matured, the pulp is no longer needed.
The Procedure
More than 15 million root canals are performed in the U.S. every year, according to the American Association of Endodontists. This procedure increases efficient chewing, improves normal biting force and sensation, restores your tooth's natural appearance, and protects other teeth from excessive strain.
The procedure is quite simple. When you arrive at Dr. Michael McCarthy's Camarillo office, your dentist first numbs the surgical area, cleans the infection, disinfect the canal, and uses a filling material to prevent bacteria from entering the root canal again. He'll then place a crown over the tooth to protect it and you'll be done.
How do you know if you need a root canal?
Root canals are likely necessary if you feel the following symptoms:
- Severe pain while chewing or biting
- Pimples on the gums
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Deep decay
- Darkening of the gums
Do you need to speak with a dentist?
If you'd like to learn more about root canal therapy or feel that you may require this treatment, then don't hesitate to call Dr. Michael McCarthy of Camarillo, CA, at (805) 482-3214 today!