Root Canal Therapy
Root canals have long been one of the most feared procedures in dentistry.
Today, dentistry has evolved to the point where root canal therapy is no longer the painful procedure it once was. It’s time to look past the bad reputation of the root canal and see it for the valuable, pain-relieving procedure it actually is.
Root Canal Therapy
The root canal is the area of the tooth that houses the pulp and the nerve. Sometimes this part of the tooth can become infected.
When this happens, not only is the tooth extremely painful and sensitive, the infection can also spread to other areas of the mouth and to other teeth. The most effective way to treat this infection is root canal therapy.
Once the anesthetic takes hold and you are completely numb, your dentist will create a small hole in your tooth. Working through the hole, the infected material will be drained out along with the pulp and any other debris. The interior of the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned out to make sure that no infection is left. An antibiotic medication may be placed inside the tooth to prevent further infection.
In most cases, the front teeth will need a filling placed after a root canal. If the front tooth has little tooth remaining, a crown will be needed. However, back teeth need more strength and a cap or crown will be placed to protect it from fracturing.This is necessary because the structure of the tooth will be weakened, and a restoration will protect the tooth from breakage and also allow you to chew comfortably.
Do I Need a Root Canal?
If you have been experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, call our office immediately. You may have an infection and could require treatment.
- Severe pain in one or more teeth
- Pain that is aggravated by chewing or other pressure
- Pain and sensitivity aggravated by hot or cold temperatures
- Darkening of one or more teeth
- A raised bump on the gums
- Swelling and tenderness in the gums that may radiate to the cheek
Call our office to make an appointment. Root canal therapy may be necessary to get rid of your pain and reduce your stress.
Meet Our Doctors:
Brady Hull
Dentist
Dr. Brady Hull is a Oak Ridge native who attended Linden, Robertsville, and Oak Ridge High School. Dr Hull completed his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) at ATSU Missouri. He is excited to be back in his hometown and able to care for the patients in our community.
He is married and lives in Knoxville. In his free time he enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling and playing golf.
Dana Rust
Dentist
Dr. Dana Rust takes great pride in the quality care he provides to his patients. Always mindful of each individual's goals and comfort, Dr. Rust provides treatment options ...
Jeff Phillips
Dentist
Dr. Jeff Phillips is a well known and respected dentist in Oak Ridge, TN. His primary goals for his patients are excellent oral health, comfort, and aesthetics. With more than ...