Most patients cringe when their dentist mentions a root canal as treatment for a damaged or infected tooth. But in reality, the root canal has become one of modern dentistry’s more important treatments as we have learned the long term value of preserving the natural teeth whenever possible.
Birmingham restorative dentist Dr. Spink will recommend a root canal to restore health to damaged or diseased teeth because of the benefits to a patient’s smile in the long run. Keeping the natural teeth helps to retain bone in the jaw as well as a balanced bite, both of which can be affected if a tooth is lost. Patients with a healthy smile often enjoy a better quality of life as they age, enjoying a varied diet and comfortable speech.
Advances in dental technology and treatment techniques have dramatically improved the root canal procedure. Today’s patients can receive anesthesia to reduce discomfort, but overall the procedure is no more uncomfortable than a dental filling. Often, patients feel relief afterwards from the pain they were experiencing from the infection inside the tooth!
Dr. Spink will prepare the tooth and create a small hole in the back to remove the diseased pulp inside. Once this is complete, the tooth will be filled with a biocompatible material and sealed. In most cases, a dental crown will be placed on the tooth to restore its integrity and strengthen it.
If you have a damaged tooth, tooth pain, or have noticed discoloration in a tooth, come in for a visit with Dr. Spink to see if a root canal can restore your dental health. A root canal can keep you smiling!