From Root to Crown

At Dental Arts, our approach to dental care is thorough and patient-centered, focusing on saving teeth and enhancing oral health. One of the most common yet misunderstood treatments we offer is the root canal, often followed by the placement of a post and crown. This blog post will guide you through each step of this vital procedure, demystifying the process and highlighting the benefits.

Understanding Root Canal Therapy:

A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. The procedure involves removing the damaged area of the tooth (the pulp), cleaning and disinfecting it, and then filling and sealing it. The common causes leading to this treatment include deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or a crack or chip in the tooth.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Root Canal at Dental Arts:
1. Diagnosis and X-ray: The first step is a thorough examination, including X-rays to determine the extent of tooth damage and plan the treatment.
2. Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort, the area around the tooth is numbed with local anesthesia.
3. Pulpectomy: An opening is made through the crown of the tooth to the pulp chamber. Diseased pulp is removed, and the root canals are cleaned and shaped for filling.
4. Filling the Canals: The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like material called gutta-percha, and sealed with an adhesive cement.

Adding a Post and Crown for Protection and Strength:
After a root canal, the tooth is more fragile and prone to fracture. Therefore, we usually recommend further protection with a post and crown:
1. Post Placement: If the tooth lacks sufficient structure to hold a crown, a post is placed within the root chamber to help support it.
2. Crown Fabrication: A scan of the tooth is taken to custom-make a crown that perfectly fits your tooth. The crown not only restores the tooth's natural appearance but also gives it the strength needed for everyday use.
3. Crown Fitting: Once the crown is ready, it's permanently cemented to your tooth, fully encasing the visible portion above the gum line.

The root canal, post, and crown process is a highly effective treatment for saving and restoring teeth that might otherwise need to be removed. At Dental Arts, we ensure that this procedure is as comfortable and pain-free as possible. With our expert care, patients can continue to enjoy a fully functional smile. If you suspect you need a root canal or have been putting off treatment, don't hesitate to contact us. Let us help you preserve your smile with confidence.