Root Canal Therapy in Waterbury: What Should You Expect?

What should you expect during a root canal? The answer to that question is more easily understood by first telling you what you should not expect—pain. Many people are mistakenly led to believe that a root canal is a painful procedure. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, root canal therapy in Waterbury is designed to eliminate the pain and discomfort of an infected tooth. If you have a toothache, or if you’ve noticed that one of your teeth is unusually sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, then contact Waterbury Smiles. The solution may be a root canal, a common dental procedure that Dr. Marini or Dr. Mancini can perform for you.

Symptoms of an Infected Tooth

Although pain is usually the primary indicator of an infected tooth, there are other signs and symptoms to be aware of. As mention earlier, your tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures as well as pressure when you bite or chew normally. In addition, gum tissue around the tooth may become red and swollen. There may even be a pimple-like sore on your gums near the painful tooth. The tooth may also discolor.

If you experience any of these signs and symptoms, call our office immediately. An infected tooth is a serious matter that may require immediate attention in order to prevent the spread of infection.

How Does a Tooth Become Infected?

A healthy tooth consists of a hard exterior layer called enamel, a middle layer of dentin and the core, which is called the pulp chamber and houses the nerve of the tooth. Root canals transport nutrients from the bloodstream to the tooth and carry away toxins.

However, if a tooth is chipped, cracked, broken or otherwise damaged by tooth decay or gum disease, then bacteria may be able to access the pulp chamber and root canals. As a result, the tooth becomes infected.

Root Canal Therapy in Waterbury

During a root canal procedure at Waterbury Smiles, Dr. Marini or Dr. Mancini will make sure you are comfortable and that the tooth and surrounding tissue are sufficiently anesthetized. Then, a small access hole is opened in the top of your tooth. Small dental files are inserted through the hole to remove infection, debris and the contents of the pulp chamber. The hollow space is disinfected and filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. Your tooth is then sealed and prepared for a dental crown that will protect your tooth and restore normal form and function.

For a Root Canal, Waterbury Calls Dr. Marini

For a toothache or any other kind of dental discomfort, contact the office of Waterbury Smiles in Waterbury, CT.