Las Vegas Endodontics provides root canal therapy in Las Vegas, NV. Call 702-876-5800 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is used to treat an infected tooth or a tooth that is at risk of infection. The procedure involves removing the dental pulp, the soft tissue from the inside of the tooth, and replacing it with a filler material that preserves the tooth.
Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy offers many benefits:
- Treats infection. The dental pulp is the soft tissue inside a tooth consisting of blood vessels and nerves. When bacteria invades the tooth it can infect the dental pulp. Root canal therapy removes the infected tissue and cleans out the inside of the tooth before filling it to prevent reinfection.
- Relieves pain. An infected tooth can be extremely painful. Root canal therapy provides relief by removing the infected tissue as well as the nerves that send pain signals to the brain.
- Saves the tooth. The biggest benefit of root canal therapy is that it can often save your tooth, allowing it to remain in your mouth to look and function naturally.
- Prevents infection. Root canal therapy is sometimes performed proactively on an at-risk tooth to prevent infection. A tooth may be at risk for infection if it is cracked or severely decayed.
- Can last a lifetime. A tooth that has been restored with root canal therapy can often last for the rest of your life without any additional treatment.
Our office uses GentleWave technology for root canal treatments.
Are You a Good Candidate for Root Canal Therapy?
If you have a toothache or a certain tooth that is sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, you may be a good candidate for root canal therapy. Your dentist may also recommend a root canal if you have a tooth that is cracked, chipped, broken, or severely decayed. A tooth that needs a crown may also need root canal therapy before the crown is placed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals
Is root canal therapy painful?
Despite the myths, root canal therapy is not painful. Local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth and the area around it while the tooth is being treated. You should experience no more discomfort than you would with a routine cavity filling.
Do I need a crown after root canal therapy?
In most cases it is best to fit the tooth with a crown after performing root canal therapy. This may be due to significant damage to the tooth or to simply protect the existing root from further infection.
How does the tooth survive without the dental pulp?
The dental pulp is integral in the development of the tooth, helping it grow and form properly. But once the tooth is fully formed the dental pulp is no longer needed. After it is removed the tooth is held in place by the gums, ligaments, and jaw bone.
Is root canal therapy covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover root canal therapy because it restores the natural tooth and in most cases it prevents the need for further treatment. Contact your insurance provider for specific details about your coverage.
Call 702-876-5800 to schedule an appointment.