If you have a tooth that has suffered trauma or excessive decay, you should know that you can still save that tooth! Come see our team in Baton Rouge to investigate the possibility of a root canal to restore your tooth’s health and save your smile. Millions of teeth across the globe are saved each year through root canals and endodontic treatments.
To better understand root canals and endodontics, it helps to know a little bit about tooth anatomy. Most people are familiar with the outer layer of enamel, but did you know that under that rests a hard layer of dentin? Nestled inside, carefully protected, is a soft tissue known as the pulp.
This pulp protects blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue; it also creates hard tissue that surrounds a tooth during development. The pulp connects the crown of the tooth to the roots; it is essential during growth and development. However, a fully-matured tooth can survive without its pulp because it is nourished by the surrounding tissue. When decay or infection break through the enamel and dentin layers to expose the pulp, you need a root canal to avoid severe swelling, abscesses, pain, and other ensuing problems.
When the pulp of your tooth is exposed and infected, the only options are root canal or extraction. Trauma or injury to the tooth, severe decay, and infection from periodontal disease all point to the need for a root canal.
Tooth extraction is avoided whenever possible, as it can lead to bone loss, teeth shifting, poor function, and poor aesthetics, opening up the need for dental reconstruction through other means like implants. Root canals are the preferred treatment because they allow you to keep your tooth and preserve the bone underneath it. Our dentists follow careful, proven, and trusted methods to ensure a safe root canal treatment, sealing off the potential for further damage and helping restore the tooth in question.
Only your dentist can officially diagnose a need for a root canal, but knowing and recognizing the symptoms can help prepare you for the consultation. The most common symptoms of an infected pulp are a random throbbing pain in the jaw, pain with pressure, extreme sensitivity to hot or cold, and the presence of a fistula (small bubble of pus) on the gums in front of the infected tooth.
If you are concerned with any of the above symptoms, call us today here at Tiger Smile Family Dentistry and set up an exam. In addition to the exam, our dentist will take digital radiographs to check for a darkened area that indicates infection at the root tip. Our team will determine if you need a root canal – one of the trusted Baton Rouge endodontics treatment and after this procedure, we will also recommend applying a crown to the tooth to protect it from fracturing.
Remember: Root canals don’t cause pain— they relieve it. However, we understand that undergoing the procedure can be uncomfortable, especially if an infection is involved. For that, our dentist will be able to prescribe an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Our experienced Baton Rouge dental professionals are knowledgeable in careful methods and procedures for a safe root canal treatment. We understand your worries and anxiety regarding root canal procedures. Our staff will work with you to ensure you are comfortable and confident in the chair; you can rest easy in the experienced hands of Tiger Smile Family Dentistry. Every patient is different when it comes to dealing with our procedure, so we’ll make sure to adjust to your needs. Don’t hesitate to talk to us, especially if you’re not fully comfortable.
After your initial consultation, our team will set a procedural appointment for you. The first step is to remove any infected or inflamed pulp:
It’s essential that you be gentle with your teeth after the initial treatment. Do not bite or chew with your teeth; do brush and floss regularly. You will set a follow-up appointment to return and have a crown installed over the treated tooth for protection, after which you can chew regularly again. Once the entire procedure is complete, you should continue to visit regularly for cleanings and other preventative care.
Tiger Smile Family Dentistry is nestled near the heart of Baton Rouge. We pride ourselves on forming solid relationships with our clients— your dental health is our top priority. Come and see us anytime, especially during a dental emergency.
Our caring staff will work closely with you to alleviate any discomfort and take the steps needed to restore your dental health. Call us today to set an appointment!
429 E Airport Ave Suite 3, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
225-567-8121Monday & Wednesday – 8am to 5pm
Tuesday & Thursday – 7am to 3pm
Friday to Sunday – Closed
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