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A toothache can be an uncomfortable annoyance or a pulsating, throbbing menace. For some people, the symptoms are very subtle making it difficult to know a root canal is needed until a visit to your dentist makes that determination.

A root canal is a process in which the nerve and pulp contained in the root of the tooth are removed. A tooth can have one to four canals within the roots of the tooth and each one contains the pulp and nerve that will be removed during the endodontic procedure. At the completion of a root canal, the area is completely cleansed and filled with an infection fighting material to aid in the healing process.  The opening is then sealed to prevent further damage or infection, often with a dental crown.

The primary reason for a root canal is to save a tooth that is either severely decayed or infected, but enough of the tooth is salvageable to undergo the process. Once a tooth has matured and erupted through gum tissue, the nerve inside the root of the tooth does not serve any needed specific purpose except to detect hot or cold. So removing the nerve does not impact the value of saving the tooth.

When a tooth gets to a point where a root canal is recommended, it is usually because there is infection present or there is a crack or break in the tooth that is allowing food, beverages or air to reach the nerve causing a zinging sensation.

Before starting a root canal, the dentist will prepare the area by sealing off the tooth with a rubber dam. This is to keep the area dry during the procedure and to prevent any fluids used during the procedure from being swallowed.

Generally the patient is given an anesthetic to “freeze” the area. Depending on which tooth and how many canals are involved, a root canal can be a quick procedure or can take an hour or longer. Keeping the patient comfortable and calm during the procedure allows the dentist to work as quickly as possible.

The dentist wants to make sure all canals are treated because leaving one canal of the tooth untreated can result in root canal failure and the need to retreat.

Root canal therapy allows a patient to keep a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted, so although no one wants to experience a root canal, the value of this treatment to save a tooth is priceless.

If you are in need of a root canal in the Long Island area, please contact the office of Dr. Richard Sousa at 516-484-6600.

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental diseases in both children and adults. Although cavities, or tooth decay, may be considered a childhood disease, many adults are diagnosed with them as well. The main difference in childhood decay and adult decay is the actual location of the cavity.

For children, decay typically develops on the biting surfaces of the molars or the surfaces where the teeth touch one another. In adults, decay is found on the same surface as well as on the root surfaces of the teeth. Factors such as diet, medications, and homecare habits can greatly influence your risk and rate of decay.

When detected in the very earliest stages, decay can be addressed and corrected. If decay is left untreated, it can spread throughout the teeth, beyond the point of repair.

If Dr. Richard Sousa, your dentist serving Long Island, is able to detect decay in its early stages, the chances of saving your natural tooth are very high. Digital imaging technology makes it possible to see the most minute breakdown in the enamel. Often, a cavity can be identified and treated well before it is visible to the naked eye, and months before it causes pain or sensitivity for you.

In the event that the decay is not identified early, it can quickly spread throughout the soft inner structures of the tooth and approach the nerve. For most patients, sensitivity to temperature and pressure may become noticeable. As the decay progresses, involving the nerve of the tooth, the tooth also becomes significantly weakened. Normal chewing forces can fracture and break the tooth unexpectedly.

In some cases, the tooth erodes down to the gum line, and oral surgery is necessary to remove the remaining tooth structure.

In the fight against disease, early detection is still the very best protection. This includes dental disease. If you feel that you should be evaluated for early signs of decay, call the office of Dr. Sousa at 516-484-6600 to schedule your appointment right away.