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Dental Solutions

ROOT CANAL

DENTIST DR. BENJAMIN POLAN TAKES THE DREAD OUT OF ROOT CANALS IN BEVERLY, MA

An X-ray of a root canal procedure

We all display a similar grimace once a ‘root canal’ is mentioned

Once upon a time this procedure really was terribly painful and uncomfortable, but with advances in dental technology dentists are able to perform a root canal with no more discomfort than placing a filling. A root canal is often recommended by dentists in order to save the tooth, rather than extract it.


What is the Root Canal Procedure?

The root canal is the pocket where the tooth nerve resides enveloped in a pulp chamber. The pulp material is actually loose connective tissue that protects the nerve. The chamber also contains sensory nerves which carry signals to the brain, and in the case of nerve damage, the pain signal will be relayed to the brain and dental pain is experienced.

During a root canal procedure, the nerve is removed, and the canal area is filled with a bio-compatible rubbery substance called Gutta Percha. The procedure begins with the application of a topical anesthetic to the gum area and an injection of local anesthetic if necessary. A hole is placed in the nerve chamber and the nerve is removed leaving the tooth intact.


The canal is reshaped to hold the Gutta Percha. A temporary filling is put in place and then a return visit is necessary for the final restoration.

After a root canal, the tooth becomes weaker and more brittle, so the post and crown are used to give the tooth strength and integrity. If it’s an exceptionally strong tooth, the post and crown will not be needed. The root canal itself will usually take 1-2 visits, and the final restoration is typically an additional visit.


Avoiding a Root Canal is not good Dental Practice

The longer the procedure is put off the higher the risk for significant tooth damage. Bacteria will continue to accumulate in the tooth area and may cause the tooth to become infected or abscess. The patient may also experience swelling in the head, neck or face areas and bone may be lost in the area surrounding the tip of the root of the damaged tooth. If an infection or abscess has occurred the draining pus can cause a hole to form in the tooth, and the pus may continue draining into the gum area or skin.


Fear of Dental Pain keeping you from saving your teeth?

Beverly, MA dentist, Dr. Benjamin Polan puts his training and experience to work every day for dental patients and provides root canals that are as pain free as possible. Gone are the days when root canal were synonymous with extreme pain. Dr. Polan is committed to using state of the art techniques and equipment to provide the best dental care available. Saving the natural tooth with a root canal will restore the natural appearance of the tooth, efficiency in chewing, regular biting force and will protect other teeth from excessive strain and wear.

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