Root Canal

When patients are informed that they need a root canal procedure, they often become very fearful and do not want to have the procedure done. The misconception that root canals are painful, cause illness or will further cause damage to their teeth is decades old and holds no truth. Science has come a long way since the first root canal procedure occurred in the 1700’s.

 

The whole point of a root canal procedure is to alleviate pain, not cause more. Root canals are performed by removing the pulp of the tooth that has become inflamed, infected or dead. The pulp is a soft substance that is in the center of the tooth, it consists of nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. The most common causes of pulp damage are cracked tooth, deep cavity and an injury to a tooth. We use this procedure to save a tooth that is badly decayed and would otherwise be extracted.

 

One of the main misconceptions regarding root canals focuses on the idea that the procedure “kills” the tooth rather than repairing it. Once the pulp is cleaned and disinfected, the area filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called “gutta-percha.” Afterwards, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection. After restoration, the tooth continues to function like any other tooth. People also think that a root canal procedure is an invasive procedure that takes hours to complete. Modern root canal procedures are often compared to having a routine filling and can be completed in just one visit.

 

Set up an appointment at our Baytown, TX cosmetic and family dental practice by calling 281-421-5950 or visit us online at www.singing-dentist.com.

Sealants

We know that trying to get your child to consistently brush and floss can be a daunting task. Parents who take preventative measures are putting their children in a great position to have a smile they can be proud of throughout their life. One of the most effective preventative measures parents and children can take is utilizing dental sealants. Sealants are typically used to protect children’s teeth between the ages of 6-14.

 

Dental sealants are a thin, plastic coating that is painted onto the chewing surface of the teeth, particularly the back teeth (molars and premolars). Sealants are a great way to prevent tooth decay because it bonds into the depressions and grooves of the teeth, creating a protective seal over the enamel of each tooth. In some cases, dental sealants may also be utilized for baby teeth, but this is only in cases when the teeth have deep depressions and grooves.

 

Having dental sealants applied is simple and non-invasive. Dr. Ivi Sanguinetti can complete the procedure in just a few minutes. She will start by thoroughly cleaning the teeth and dry the area. An acid solution is the applied to the chewing surface of the teeth to roughen them; this helps the sealant bond properly to the teeth. Dr. Sanguinetti then dries the teeth applies the sealant directly to each tooth. The sealant will protect teeth from decay for up to ten years. Regular check-ups and cleanings are recommended to monitor the effectiveness of the sealant.

 

If you think you child could benefit from dental sealants, call Dr Sanguinetti's office at 281-421-5950 to schedule an appointment.