Have you been experiencing intense pain in one of your teeth? Does it seem to stop you in your tracks? Maybe it happens when you bite into some food or drink liquids. Then there are other times where the tooth just seems to hurt without provocation. If so, you may be suffering from advanced dental decay that requires more than just a filling to correct. In fact, you may need root canal therapy in Mt. Holly. Learn what this method of restoration entails, how it’s performed and why your dentist may recommend it.

What is a Root Canal?

The root canal procedure is used to restore your teeth in situations where advanced tooth decay has occurred. It is required because bacteria have gone beyond just the enamel (the outer surface of the tooth) and have penetrated to the inner housing, where nerves are kept in the pulp. This explains why you are having the intense bouts of pain. The nerves inside your tooth are exposed to the foods, liquids and bacteria that enter your mouth.

As a result, your dentist in Mt. Holly will take the following steps to correct your problem:

• Your oral expert will first capture an X-Ray image that identifies where the troublesome decay is located.
• The procedure will begin with him making an incision into the tooth so that he can access the infected area.
• The next step is to remove the decayed tissue and clean the area thoroughly.
• Your dentist will then fill the vacated space with a material called gutta-percha and seal the tooth.

Soon after the procedure is done, you will once again be able to chew and drink as normal.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay in the Future

After your decayed tooth is restored, the last thing you want to do is walk down the same path again. So to prevent future problems, incorporate these two simple lifestyle changes:

• Visit Your Dentist Regularly – At a minimum, you should visit your dentist every six months. This will provide you with a thorough cleaning and a tediously conducted examination, that will allow your oral expert to identify any problems that may be developing.
• Practice Better Oral Hygiene – Along with visiting your dentist for semi-annual appointments, you should also maintain a daily oral hygiene regimen, that includes brushing and flossing at least twice. This will defend your teeth against the onslaught of bacteria that seek to cause issues.

Now that you’ve gotten to the root of the problem, just reach out to your local dentist today to schedule an appointment. Soon, you’ll be back to living your life as normal.

About the Author

Dr. Bill Greenberg combines 40 years of experience as a dentist and a constant drive to learn more, to deliver the absolute best care. He is a graduate of Tufts University, a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Dr. Greenberg practices at Mt. Holly Family Dentistry and can be reached for more information through his website.