Root Canals - Endodontic Treatment

When a tooth becomes severely decayed or infected, a root canal is usually performed to prevent the tooth from having to be extracted. Most of us have heard horror stories about root canals; popular culture has turned them into something we instinctively dread. But the modern root canal procedures offered by Hendersonville dentist Dr. Thomas F. Tomlo use advanced dental techniques and technology to maximize patient comfort and safety. Many patients are surprised at just how quick and relatively painless their root canal procedure was.

Why Consider a Root Canal

When the tissue or pulp of your tooth becomes damaged, bacteria can quickly begin to multiply. This can result in a serious infection that compromises the health of your mouth. If the infection is not treated, it can spread into other areas of the face, resulting in:

• Swelling
• Discomfort
• Bone loss around the tooth’s root
• Serious, even life-threatening health consequences

Uncorrected, this infection can lead to the need for tooth extraction and artificial tooth replacement, such as dental implants or dental bridges.

At our comfortable office, Dr. Tomlo offers root canals for the anterior teeth of patients at any age. If you require a root canal on posterior teeth, Dr. Tomlo will refer you to an exceptional specialist in our area.

How a Root Canal is Performed

To remove damaged pulp from your tooth, a small access hole will need to be created. This is often where the fear of root canals stems from. With modern dental procedures, the placement of this access hole is no more invasive or noticeable than a common tooth filling. Once the hole is placed, damaged pulp and decay are removed from your tooth with surgical instruments and remaining debris is washed out with a sanitizing solution. After your tooth has been thoroughly cleaned, it will be sealed to prevent future decay.

A root canal may result in aesthetic imperfections. If necessary, Dr. Tomlo will discuss tooth restoration procedures such as dental crowns or porcelain veneers to restore your smile to its most beautiful state.

If you have further questions about root canals, please contact our experienced dentistry team today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Thomas F. Tomlo, DDS, PLLC.

We serve patients in the Hendersonville and Asheville areas of North Carolina, as well as the Spartanburg and Greenville areas of South Carolina.