Root Canals in Las Vegas & Santa Rosa, NM

A root canal is a procedure that removes diseased tissue from inside a tooth and restores it to the point of being healthy again. The treatment can be helpful for patients who have an infection in the tooth or who have an abscessed tooth. The procedure is also beneficial for patients with damaged teeth or who are experiencing severe toothaches. At Collins Dental, the infected tissues are removed during the process, and the tooth is cleaned and sealed to protect it from further damage. A dental crown may be needed to restore the tooth’s look and strength.

Why Would I Need A Root Canal Procedure?

Simply put, a root canal is a treatment to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or has become infected. This can happen when cavities go untreated, and bacteria can grow and spread within the tooth's pulp. Symptoms of the infection may include sensitivity to hot and cold and pain in the tooth and gums. At some point, the tooth will likely need to be extracted to prevent the spread of infection and pain. However, if the condition is identified and treated early, we may be able to salvage your tooth with a root canal procedure. We can remove the infected tissue inside the tooth, clean the affected area and provide protection with a dental crown. This allows the tooth to heal correctly and protects against further decay. A dentist may recommend a root canal if patients have noticed any of these symptoms:

• Pain when you chew or put pressure on your teeth
• Tooth discoloration
• Swelling in the gum area around your tooth
• Foul taste in your mouth
• Pus draining from the cavity in your affected tooth
• An abscess around your gums near the roots of your teeth
• Fever or illness that persists despite taking antibiotics prescribed by your doctor
• Bad breath that won’t go away with brushing and flossing alone

The Root Canal Procedure

First, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and gum area around the tooth. The tooth will be isolated with a dental dam to keep it clean and dry throughout the procedure. Then, a special drill is used to remove the infected tissue from inside the tooth and any damaged nerve tissue causing the toothache symptoms. Once the diseased material has been removed, your dentist will use a strong disinfectant to clean the inside of your tooth. Finally, your tooth is filled with an inert material and sealed with a temporary filling while you wait for your permanent crown to be created in a dental lab.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of an infected tooth, contact Collins Dental at 1900 7th St, Las Vegas, NM 87701, or call (505) 425-3331. They will be able to examine your tooth and provide the necessary treatment to help relieve you of the pain you are experiencing and restore your oral health.