Root Canal Therapy
If you have an infected tooth, Dr. Stephen K. Malone may recommend root canal therapy. At our Knoxville practice, Dr. Malone and his associate, Dr. Brent Dickenson, use gentle techniques for minimal discomfort treatment. The procedure can save your tooth, end your significant discomfort, and restore your dental functionality. Thanks to our lifelike crowns, your newly restored tooth will also blend beautifully with your smile. To learn more about root canal therapy and to put an end to your discomfort, contact Dr. Malone’s office today.
Root Canal Candidates
Initially, Dr. Malone can treat a cavity with a routine dental filling. However, if the decay goes undetected and untreated, it will eventually spread to the soft pulp in the middle of your tooth. It could also affect your dental roots. Because your nerves run through the root canals into the inner chamber of your tooth, the infection can cause significant discomfort. If it continues to spread, it could also destroy the entire dental structure. A root canal can eliminate infection and save your tooth.
If you suffer from any of the following symptoms, you may require root canal therapy:
Dr. Malone will use bitewing x-rays to examine your dental roots and determine your candidacy for a root canal.
The Root Canal Procedure
To perform the treatment, Dr. Malone will first numb your tooth and the nearby gum tissue. Then he will create a tiny opening in the top of your tooth. Through this opening, he can remove bacteria and infected pulp. He will also clean out and reshape your root canals. He may take x-rays throughout this process, so he can make sure he is eliminating all bacteria and infection. At the end of this first appointment, he will place a temporary filling.
At your second appointment, Dr. Malone will remove the temporary filling. Then he will place a soft rubber compound called gutta percha. Finally, he will affix a dental crown on top of your damaged tooth. In most cases, he will provide an all-porcelain restoration, which will be virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
The Truth about Root Canal Discomfort
Root canals have an unfortunate reputation for being extremely unpleasant. In truth, the procedure involves minimal discomfort. Because your tooth and gums will be numb during the process, you will typically feel nothing more than a sense of mild pressure. Most patients report that having root canal therapy is comparable to receiving a dental filling. Root canal therapy will actually alleviate your discomfort. Following your procedure, you may experience immediate relief from the pain of a dental infection.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Do not let an infection compromise your smile. Contact our office today to find out if a root canal will save your damaged tooth. Dr. Malone and Dr. Dickenson, treat patients from Powell, Karns, Farragut, Seymour, Maryville, Oak Ridge and the surrounding communities.
For a textbook definition on root canals, read this article.