Dental sensitivity or swelling at the gum line may indicate dental abscess, or infected tooth pulp. Root canal therapy in Mt. Holly is a wonderful, proven effective alternative to tooth extraction.  Also termed endodontics or simply, “ a root canal,” this dental restoration removes diseased inner pulp and crowns remaining tooth structure. Drs. Greenburg, Ko-Kim, Cygler and Govitrikar at Mt. Holly Family Dentistry perform endodontic procedures to restore smiles to full health and great aesthetics.

Root canal therapy in Mt. Holly

Treatment starts with an oral exam and digital x-rays.  These confirm the need for endodontic therapy. Presenting symptoms frequently include:

• Continual bad breath
• Dental sensitivity to temperature extremes
• A throbbing toothache, often with swelling of the gum and jaw
• A serious tooth fracture
• Loss of a large filling or crown
• Pus, drainage and red, puffy gums

Endodontic therapy removes infected inner pulp and crowns the tooth to strengthen and protect it. An adult tooth functions without the nerves, connective tissue and blood supply in its inner chambers, or root canals. The periodontal ligament which anchors roots to bone and surrounding soft tissue remains intact and functioning after a root canal procedure.

The doctor ensures the patient’s comfort during the one- to 2-visit treatment by using local anesthesia (pain shot) or oral sedation as needed.  A  protective rubber dam around the tooth keeps the area dry and free from debris. The dentist drills a small hole into the tooth to access the first of up to 4 chambers.

To take out the pulp and clean out the root canal, the Mt Holly dentist uses several small files of increasing size. When each canal is clean and smooth, the doctor instills anti-microbial medication to quell the infection and seals the chambers with gutta-percha, a natural, rubber-like putty.  A temporary filling finishes the tooth.

After a week to 10 days of healing, the patient returns to Mt. Holly Family Dentistry to receive a  customized porcelain crown. The crown supports, protects and beautifies the tooth, preserving it for years of service.

Aftercare of a tooth treated with Mt. Holly root canal therapy includes brushing and flossing twice a day at home and semi-annual check-ups and prophylactic cleanings with Dr. Greenburg or one of his associate dentists.

The American Association of Endodontists states that of the approximately 17 million root canal treatments performed annually in the US, about 95 percent are successful. Plus, Mt. Holly root canal therapy relieves pain and avoids the many difficult consequences of tooth loss.

Keep your teeth strong and healthy

Root canal therapy at Mt. Holly Family Dentistry keeps natural teeth in place and allows for natural chewing, speech and facial appearance. Also, gums and jawbone remain intact, avoiding the recession that inevitably occurs after tooth extraction.

If you think you need a root canal procedure, don’t hesitate. Contact Mt. Holly Family Dentistry for a consultation with one of our highly skilled dentists.