If you have recently cracked or broken your tooth, had an abscessed tooth, or just have a tooth ache or sensitivity that you can’t shake, you may need a root canal. In the past, patients went running for the door at the sounds of that, but advances in technology allow the dentists of DeMartino Advanced Cosmetic and Laser Dentistry to repair your tooth’s damaged root quickly, efficiently and with much less pain. If you think you may need a root canal, don’t wait. Call the knowledgeable team at DeMartino Advanced Cosmetic and Laser Dentistry in Phillipsburg, NJ today to schedule an examination.

Endodontics

Endodontics is a combination of two Greek words “endo” inside and “odont” tooth. Endodontics is the dental specialization that repairs damage to the inside of the tooth, and especially to the roots of teeth through what is referred to as root canal therapy. Many patients think that root canals are extremely painful, but in truth, the root canal therapy actually alleviates pain by removing infection. Infection can cause a good deal of pain especially when it enters the root canal. Within the root, the canal protects nerve fibers. As bacteria breakdown the root wall, they can enter the canal and affect the nerves. This is where the extreme pain associated with root canals comes from.

Luckily, our dentists have years of experience, and know how to utilize technology to limit the invasiveness of the root canal so as not to damage gums, and will work to retain your tooth by removing all of the infection. Your tooth will then be filled with gutta-percha. If a large portion of your tooth is lost to decay, your dentist may need to place a crown to protect the remaining tooth.

Reasons for Root Canals

There are a number of reasons why patients need to undergo root canal therapies. Root canals are especially common for patients who experience trauma to their teeth, who suffer from gum disease, and who have experienced repeated or severe tooth decay. Whatever the cause for a root canal, it is essential to have it treated in a timely manner.

When trauma occurs, your tooth can be cracked, chipped or broken. Even if it is just a small crack, bacteria can break down the tooth more quickly, and reach the nerve causing a severe tooth ache. Even if you don’t think you need dental care after dental trauma, see a dentist to check for small cracks or breaks. Patients who suffer from gum disease are at a higher risk for root canal because the bacteria from their gums can easily begin to break down the root of their tooth. Finally, if you have repeated problems with tooth decay in specific areas of your mouth, you are much more likely to need root canal therapy at some point. No matter how careful we are during treatment, the chances of further damage and decay increase each time a tooth is infected.

Do You Need a Root Canal?

If you have a persistent tooth ache or severe sensitivity to cold or heat, you may need a root canal. Call our convenient Phillipsburg, NJ office to schedule an appointment today. DeMartino Advanced Cosmetic and Laser Dentistry is here to restore your smile and ease your pain. We welcome patients from Phillipsburg, Stewartsville, Easton, Bethlehem, and the surrounding communities.