Root canals effectively save infected or badly damaged teeth. At Amity Dentistry, we use modern root canal therapy techniques and anesthesia for comfortable procedures.

Root canal therapy in Charlotte NC is needed when pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This happens from deep decay, cracks, or repeated dental work on the same tooth. Without root canal treatment, infection spreads, causing pain, abscesses, and tooth loss.

Each tooth contains pulp, soft tissue with nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The pulp extends from the crown down through root canals to the bone. When pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can’t heal on its own. Bacteria multiply within the pulp chamber and root canals, eventually causing abscess formation at the root tip.

• Severe, persistent toothache is the most common symptom. Pain may worsen when chewing or applying pressure. Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the stimulus is removed, indicates pulp damage.
• Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums suggest infection spreading beyond the tooth. Some people develop pimple-like bumps on gums near the affected tooth. These bumps may drain pus, leaving a bad taste.
• Tooth discoloration, particularly darkening, can indicate pulp death. However, not all cases produce symptoms. Sometimes pulp dies gradually without pain, which is why regular dental exams are important for early detection.

Treatment typically requires one or two appointments. We begin by taking X-rays to see the root canal shape and check for infection signs in the surrounding bone. Local anesthesia numbs the area completely.

• We place a rubber dam around the tooth to keep it dry and isolated during treatment. A small opening is made through the tooth crown to access the pulp chamber. Using specialized instruments, we remove infected or damaged pulp from the chamber and root canals.
• The canals are thoroughly cleaned, shaped, and disinfected. This removes bacteria and debris while creating space for filling material. We may place medication inside the tooth between appointments if infection is significant.
• Once canals are completely clean and dry, we fill them with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This seals the canals to prevent bacteria from re-entering. We place a temporary filling to close the opening.

Some tenderness is normal for a few days after root canal therapy Charlotte procedures. Over-the-counter pain medication typically provides adequate relief. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration is placed.

The tooth needs a permanent restoration, usually a crown, to protect it from breaking. Teeth requiring root canals often have significant damage or large fillings. Without a crown, they’re prone to fracture.

We schedule a follow-up appointment to place the final restoration. Once crowned, the tooth functions normally and can last as long as your other teeth with proper care.

Root canal therapy in Charlotte NC saves teeth that would otherwise require extraction. Keeping natural teeth is always preferable when possible. Natural teeth preserve jawbone, maintain bite alignment, prevent remaining teeth from shifting, and function better than any artificial replacement.

Extraction might seem simpler, but replacing the tooth with an implant, bridge, or partial denture involves additional time, procedures, and cost. Root canal treatment is often the most conservative, cost-effective option.

Root canal therapy has high success rates, typically above 95%. Most treated teeth last as long as natural teeth. Factors affecting success include the extent of infection, tooth location, canal complexity, and restoration quality.

Occasionally, teeth don’t heal as expected or become reinfected years later. In these cases, retreatment may be possible. During retreatment, we remove the original filling material, clean and disinfect the canals again, and refill them.

While not all root canal needs are preventable, you can reduce risk. Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent decay. Address cavities promptly before they reach the pulp. Wear mouthguards during sports to protect teeth from trauma. Avoid chewing hard objects that might crack teeth.

Regular dental checkups catch problems early. Small cavities are easily treated with fillings. Addressing issues promptly prevents progression to the point where root canals become necessary.