root canal patient waiting in room

When a tooth is damaged, sometimes it can easily be repaired with a dental filling or a crown. However, if the damage or decay is extensive, it could cause an infection in the pulp of the tooth. In cases such as this, there are two primary options: root canal therapy or tooth removal. At Walnut Pond Dental, our doctors offer both restorative treatments. Here, we will discuss how a root canal in Clinton, NJ can prevent an extraction.

The Importance of Timely Treatment

When a tooth becomes infected, it is crucial to seek dental care immediately. The bacteria can quickly migrate to the adjacent teeth and surrounding bone, leading to mobility, further tooth loss, and other oral health complications. Additionally, the bacteria found in the oral cavity is also present in the bloodstream. Therefore, it is carried throughout the entire body to vital tissues and organs. The only way to treat this problem is to eliminate the source of infection. This can be achieved through root canal therapy or an extraction.

When is Root Canal Therapy Appropriate?

Root canal therapy is performed when the internal structures of the tooth have been compromised. However, in order for this treatment to be successful long-term, the tooth should have a predictable prognosis. In other words, there is an excellent chance that the tooth could last for several more years following treatment. If you think you may need a root canal in Clinton, NJ, Walnut Pond Dental can help!

How Root Canal Therapy is Performed

To perform root canal therapy, your doctor will first administer local anesthesia to numb the tooth and gums. She will then make an access hole in the chewing surface of the tooth, so that the internal nerves and blood vessels can be removed. Once the necrotic tissues have been removed, the surfaces will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, and the root canals will be filled with a dental material. Finally, the tooth will be sealed with a dental filling or a crown. Because root canal therapy removes the source of infection, most patients experience minimal discomfort following this procedure.

When is an Extraction Appropriate?

In some cases, damage is too extensive to predictably save the tooth. Repairing a tooth that will only last another couple of months isn’t fun for anyone, so your doctor will perform a full assessment to determine whether or not root canal therapy is worth it. If the prognosis is too unpredictable, your doctor will most likely recommend an extraction.

How an Extraction is Performed

Today’s dental extractions are much more manageable than they used to be. Advances in technology and techniques allow us to remove teeth as comfortably as possible. To perform the treatment, local anesthesia will be administered for your comfort. Next, the tissues will be carefully moved away from the tooth, and the tooth will be gently lifted from its socket. Depending on the complexity of your case, stitches may or may not be used to close the site. As always, any procedure we offer can be performed under sedation for maximum patient comfort.

Contact Us for More Information

If you are experiencing dental pain or have a badly damaged tooth, it is important to have it evaluated as soon as possible. An untreated abscess can have a significant negative impact on your oral and overall health. To find out more, or to schedule an appointment at our Annandale, NJ practice, contact us online or call us at (908) 200-7007.