Root Canal Therapy

Today’s root canal therapy is a painless process and can help save a severely damaged tooth. At Morrison Cosmetic & General Dentistry, cosmetic dental specialist Eric Morrison, DDS, and his team offer outstanding root canal therapy to residents of Chevy Chase and Gaithersburg, Maryland. When you’re ready to learn more, reach out to the office online or over the phone to book a visit.

What is the purpose of root canal therapy?

A root canal is a restorative dentistry treatment that repairs an infected tooth. The interior chamber of your teeth is filled with a mix of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues, called dental pulp. 

When bacteria enter this small space, an infection quickly develops, creating pain and other symptoms. Your immune system can’t easily clear up infections within your tooth chamber, making root canal therapy one of the most effective treatment options. 

A root canal removes infected pulp and restores the structural integrity of the damaged tooth. It offers the chance to save the tooth, which is important in preserving healthy bone tissue within your jaw. 

What are some signs I might need root canal therapy?

Understanding the signs of an infected tooth can help you know when to take action. Some of the issues that should prompt a call to Morrison Cosmetic Dentistry include:

• Pain that intensifies when you bite down or chew
• Pimple-like sore on your gums
• Darkening on your tooth or gums
• Chipped or cracked tooth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold
• Sensitive or swollen gums

Without treatment, an inflamed or infected tooth often becomes incredibly painful. If you experience symptoms, schedule a diagnostic exam right away. 

What are the steps in getting root canal therapy?

Once Dr. Morrison determines that you have an infected or inflamed tooth, he’ll explain what to expect in terms of your treatment steps and scheduling. Root canal therapy is performed using local anesthetic to keep you comfortable. 

Dr. Morrison then creates a small opening in the tooth to gain access to the interior chamber. He then uses incredibly slim dental tools called files to remove all traces of dental pulp from the chamber. 

Once the pulp is removed, the chamber is rinsed and disinfected before a special dental material called gutta percha is cemented in place to fill the hollow chamber. A small filling closes the access hole and seals off the chamber. 

Next, Dr. Morrison takes impressions to create a custom dental crown. The new crown fits over the restored tooth, replacing all visible surfaces and creating a strong surface that allows you to bite and chew normally. 

Your tooth is checked during subsequent dental exams and doesn’t require any special care. If you have additional questions or concerns, call the office to book a consultation, or schedule online.