What is a root canal?
Root canal therapy, often referred to simply as a root canal, is a common endodontic procedure. Endodontics is the branch of dentistry that treats the inner portion of your teeth, where your dental pulp and tooth nerves are located. If infection or decay reaches this sensitive area, multiple problems can arise. In many cases, a painful infection occurs, making it hard to eat and drink properly. The gums may swell, and if left untreated, the tooth could die and require removal. The goal of root canal treatment is to restore the health of your tooth and prevent continuing damage by removing and replacing your dental pulp and tooth nerves.
How is a root canal done?
Under the direction of Dr. Shelly Ereth Barone, a root canal in Metairie, Louisiana, can generally be completed in just one or two visits to our dental office. After numbing the area with local anesthesia, our gentle dentist will carefully open the tooth, remove all infected dental pulp, and clean the root canal system. Then, the inside of your tooth is replaced with a medicated rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Finally, the tooth is sealed with a dental filling or dental crown, based on your individual needs. If you are experiencing extreme tooth pain, please contact us at Shelly Ereth Barone. We would be happy to schedule an appointment with you as soon as we can. Our contact number is 504-832-1164.
