Endodontic therapy (root canal therapy) is a sequence of treatments for removing the pulp of a tooth to eliminate infection and protect the tooth from future infection. Without treatment, the infection of the dental pulp will spread to the bone around the tooth and beyond.
The procedure is relatively painless when properly done. The Manhattan Dentist, Dr. Binder offers sedation dentistry with nitrious oxide for those patients who may be a little anxious or would just rather sleep through the procedure.
Dr. Binder's endodontic specialist will prepare the tooth to receive a crown. Treatment begins with the initial removal of the tooth crown, or top, to allow access to the pulpal tissue. Once the tissue is exposed, the affected area is removed. The area surrounding and containing the pulpal tissue is carefully cleaned, enlarged, and shaped to provide a clean, bondable surface for filling with a permanent filler to prohibit any further infection and discomfort. After filling, a dental crown is fabricated to complete the restoration of the natural tooth. The procedure is generally spread over several visits to assure the infected pulp and associated bacteria have been eliminated.
The Manhattan Dentist, Dr. Binder will help you decide on the most appropriate treatment for your comfort and crown replacement options (e.g., all-ceramic crowns, porcelain fused to gold, all gold crowns) to achieve the most natural-looking restoration for your smile.
Dental Implants v. Endodontic therapy
Dental implants offer an alternative to root canal therapy. In some cases dental implant surgery may be preferable and off a more secure anchor for crown replacements. Only a qualified dentist, after examining a patient's unique condition, can help the patient to decide which treatment is better.