Root Canal Therapy
If you have lingering or severe tooth pain, you may need root canal therapy. Root canals can be intimidating, but they actually relieve tooth pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, many people often conflate the pain from an infected tooth with root canal therapy itself. However, root canal therapy is painless and effectively saves a tooth from further infection or extraction. The American Association of Endodontists reports that every year, over 15 million teeth are treated and saved with root canal therapy.
At Cobb Family Dentistry, we use dental anesthesia and sedation options to provide patients with a pain-free, relaxing treatment. Please call our Mableton dental office today if you think you may need root canal therapy.
Signs You May a Need Root Canal
Many signs may point to the presence of a root canal infection or dental abscess:
- A worsening toothache
- Jaw pain or swelling in the mouth
- A raised bump on the gums
- Extreme tooth sensitivity, especially to temperature and touch
- Inflamed, swollen, or tender gums
- Tooth discoloration
- Foul odor or taste in the mouth
Why Your Dentist May Recommend Root Canal Therapy
At Cobb Family Dentistry, we believe knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your oral health. We always explain why we recommend a specific treatment and what to expect, so there aren't any surprises. Our goal is to make sure we demystify the process so you can understand how root canal therapy can save your tooth, and overall, preserve your smile.
Each tooth has canals inside the roots, which is where the term "root canal" is derived. The tooth's interior contains pulp, a collection of nerves and blood vessels. When trauma or decay affects the tooth, bacteria can infect the pulp.
Over time, the infection can worsen, and the pain can eventually become unbearable. Rather than put off treatment, please get in touch with our dental office, as emergency root canal therapy is the last resort to save a natural tooth from extraction.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
Reid Popple and our team first make sure you're comfortable before the procedure. We offer neck pillows and nitrous oxide as mild sedation for additional relaxation if desired. Then, using CBCT 3-D radiography, we examine your mouth and pinpoint the origin of your issue.
We then numb the tooth with a strong local anesthetic before gently removing the infected pulp and damaged nerves. Once the inside of the tooth is clean, we apply a soothing antibiotic and seal the tooth. 
Your dentist may recommend a dental crown or filling to protect and strengthen the tooth. After root canal therapy, you can enjoy the restored function and aesthetics of your tooth.
Our Mableton dental office is equipped with the latest technologies so that you can receive a gentle root canal and custom-made crown all in one convenient location.
Save Your Smile with Gentle Root Canal Therapy in Mableton, GA
If you ever experience tooth pain or swelling, please contact us as soon as possible, as these symptoms could indicate a risk to your oral health. Dr. Popple will review your symptoms, evaluate your condition, and recommend the best possible treatment for your needs. And, of course, we will relieve your pain and save your smile!
You can reach us by calling (770) 944-8620 to schedule your exam.
