Dental Health and Root Canals
If you found you had a tooth with a diseased nerve, in the past it probably would have been lost. Today, the root canal treatment is used to save that tooth. A root canal is a relatively simple procedure that involves one to three office visits. Best of all, a root canal can save your tooth and your smile!
What is the purpose of a root canal?
A tooth’s nerve is not crucial to it’s health or function after the tooth has emerged through the gums. The only function it has is sensory, it provides the sensation of hot or cold. The presence or absence of a nerve will not affect the day-to-day functioning of your tooth.
However, when a tooth is cracked or has a deep cavity, bacteria is able to enter the pulp tissue and germs can cause an infection inside the tooth. If this is left untreated, an abscess can form. If the diseased tissue is not removed, pain and swelling will occur. This will in turn affect your jawbone, and can be detrimental to your overall health. Without the proper care, your tooth will most likely have to be pulled.
What are the signs that a root canal is needed?
Signs that you might need a root canal can include severe toothache, pain when chewing or when pressure is applied, prolonged sensitivity to temperatures, a dark discoloration of the tooth, and swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums. Be aware because not all teeth that require root canal therapy are painful. If you experience any of these symptoms please contact your dentist.
What happens during a root canal?
If you require a root canal treatment, you will be asked to schedule one to three visits. During those visits, your endodontist or regular dentist will remove the affected tissue. After that, the interior of the tooth will be cleaned up and sealed. Lastly, the tooth will be filled with dental composite. If your tooth had extensive decay, your doctor might recommend putting a crown on the tooth to strengthen and protect your tooth from breakage. Your restored tooth will last a lifetime as long as you continue to care for your teeth.
Dr. Jordan Cooper is from Jacksonville, AR. His father is Dr. James Cooper, a Jonesboro, AR native and practicing dentist of 39 years and his mother, Tracy Cooper, is a dental hygienist from Little Rock. Dr. Cooper graduated high school from Central Arkansas Christian, after which he entered at the University of Arkansas as a Chancellor’s Scholar in 1998.
Dr. David Cole is a graduate from the University of Arkansas, receiving his degree in 2016, and is a huge Razorback fan! He then went to dental school at the University of Tennessee where he received his D.D.S. in 2021. He looks forward to getting to know the Central Arkansas area, and serving his community!
Dr. Rasmussen is a Hot Springs native who graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in 2017 (Go Bears). After receiving his D.D.S from The University of Tennessee in 2021, he is looking forward to serving the central Arkansas community and the wonderful people who live here.
Dr. James Cooper was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas. He studied at the University of New Mexico and graduated from dental school from the University of Missouri, Kansas City. After 2 years of dental experience with the Army, Dr. Cooper moved to Jacksonville in 1973 to practice dentistry.