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Root Canal

Braselton Smile Studio: Oluyemi Workman, DDS

Dentist located in Braselton, GA

The anticipation of a root canal procedure can be nerve-racking for a lot of men and women. Braselton Smile Studio wants you to know a root canal doesn’t have to be an unpleasant, anxiety-inducing experience. General and cosmetic dentist Dr. Oluyemi Workman, DDS, and the professional team at Braselton Smile Studio in Braselton, Georgia, are well-trained to perform root canals and they do so on a routine basis. If you’re concerned about having a root canal, call the office or schedule an appointment online.

Root Canal Q & A

Do I need a root canal?

The goal of a root canal is to alleviate pain and save an infected tooth. When the inside of your tooth is severely infected or decayed, Dr. Workman and the expert team at Braselton Smile Studio extract any dying or dead tissue and bacteria from the tooth's interior. This allows them to protect your tooth and alleviate your pain.

What leads to an infection in the tooth root?

An untreated cavity or oral injury can cause infection in the tissue and roots of your teeth. If you don’t visit the dentist, the infected tissue may spread into the root or pulp of the tooth. Be sure to inquire about treatment, because if the infection gets any further, it can induce a host of other problems.

 

How can I recognize an infected tooth?

If you don't seek treatment for the infected tooth rather immediately, you might experience a significant amount of discomfort. Infected tooth symptoms might include:

  • Inflamed gums

  • Tooth soreness when eating and drinking

  • Extreme tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures

  • Unpleasant breath

  • Pus coming from around the tooth (often due to an abscess)

  • Tooth pain

  • Tooth darkening in color

  • A small pimple-like bump on your gum (often due to an abscess)
    How does a root canal work?

Typically, Dr. Workman and her team at Braselton Smile Studio can take care of your tooth in one or two visits. You may need X-rays taken so that the full extent of the tooth damage can be evaluated before the root canal is performed.

When it's time for the procedure to begin, Dr. Workman applies a needle to anesthetize the area. Occasionally, she places a dental dam, or a little piece of rubber, on your tooth to preserve its cleanliness and protect it from bacteria during the procedure. Once your tooth is numb, Dr. Workman forms a minuscule hole in your tooth to reach the infection inside the root.

After this, Dr. Workman takes away the damaged and unhealthy pulp using small files, and sprays the area with water to remove debris. Once all the infected material is removed, she either seals the tooth or puts in a temporary filling to protect your tooth until you come back for a permanent crown.

If you have any signs or symptoms of a tooth infection, call Braselton Smile Studio or schedule a consultation online.