Root Canals

When bacteria reach the soft tissue inside your tooth, a root canal can save the tooth from extraction. At Tiger Family Dental Care in Rockville, Maryland, Ibad Farshori, DMD, and Florentino Palacios, DDS, perform root canal therapy to eliminate infection and preserve your natural tooth. Using advanced digital technology and same-day treatment, they can often address severe tooth pain quickly instead of making you wait. Call the office or schedule online if you’re experiencing severe tooth pain.

What is a root canal? 

A root canal cleans out infection inside your tooth to save it from extraction. Inside each tooth is soft tissue called pulp that contains nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria get into this area through a cavity (tooth decay) or a crack, the pulp becomes infected and starts to die.

During root canal treatment, your dentist removes the infected pulp, thoroughly cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to stop bacteria from getting back in.

Why do you need a root canal? 

Your dentist at Tiger Family Dental Care typically recommends root canal therapy when you have severe tooth pain that doesn’t go away, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or swelling around the affected tooth. 

Several conditions increase your risk of needing root canal treatment, including:

• Deep cavities that reach the tooth’s pulp
• Cracked or chipped teeth that expose the inner tissue
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
• Trauma or injury to the face that damages the tooth nerves
• Large fillings that weaken the tooth structure
• Severe gum disease that affects tooth roots

Without treatment, the infection spreads to surrounding tissues and can cause a painful abscess (a bacteria-filled sac around the tooth root). The tooth eventually needs extraction if the infection isn’t eliminated, which means you’ll need a replacement, like a dental implant or bridge.

What happens during root canal treatment? 

Tiger Family Dental Care uses digital X-rays displayed on a monitor so you can see what’s happening with your tooth. Digital imaging helps your dentist locate the infected areas and plan the most effective treatment.

Your dentist numbs the area around the affected tooth, then creates a small opening to access the pulp chamber. They remove the infected tissue and clean the root canals thoroughly. The practice’s advanced technology allows for precise treatment that’s often completed in a single visit.

After cleaning, your dentist fills the space with a biocompatible material and seals the opening. Most teeth need a crown after root canal therapy to restore full strength and function.

Call Tiger Family Dental Care today or book online to schedule an evaluation if you’re experiencing severe tooth pain or sensitivity.