You’ve probably heard of a root canal and think of it as a notoriously painful dental procedure. The truth is that its purpose is to relieve pain and restore the health of a tooth. Green Tree Dental is experienced in performing this treatment safely and comfortably for patients in Chicago.

What is a Root Canal Filling?

Inspired dentist working with her patient in Chicago

A cavity forms in a tooth when plaque and food debris are not cleaned away properly. As a result, bacteria are allowed to collect on the tooth surfaces, releasing acids that eat away at the tooth enamel. Eventually, a hole forms in the tooth called a cavity. Usually, cavities are successfully treated with dental fillings, but when they are allowed to worsen, a filling will no longer be sufficient. When the damage threatens the pulp of a tooth (the soft core where the blood vessels and nerves are located), it must be removed to prevent an abscess from forming. Root canal therapy is the procedure used to remove the decay and fill the space back in to restore function to the tooth. This treatment may also be needed to restore a tooth that has become affected by an injury, such as a fracture or crack, or from repeated dental procedures that disturb the tissue.

Root Canal Therapy Procedure

Our experienced team at Green Tree Dental will first take x-rays to get a look at the tooth below the gum line. This way, we can diagnose if a root canal is needed. At the start of the procedure, we will apply an anesthetic to minimize discomfort. Your dentist will then create a hole through the top of the tooth, remove the infected or damaged pulp, and then clean out the interior of the tooth to discourage bacteria from collecting there again. The canal will then be filled to restore the tooth’s structure, and will frequently be covered with a dental crown for maximum strength. This will allow you to use the tooth as normal again.

If you are experiencing pain or have developed severe tooth decay, schedule a root canal filling consultation with Green Tree Dental in Chicago.

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