Preventive Dentistry
With regular exams and preventive measures, we can detect dental problems early and prevent serious issues from arising.Read More >
Cosmetic Dentistry
Our modern cosmetic dental solutions include methods to transform stained chipped, crooked, and widely spaced teeth into beautiful smiles.Read More >
Full-Mouth Reconstruction
From replacement teeth to crowns and fillings, Dr. Hagley can completely restore your smile and revive your oral health.Read More >
Endodontics (Root Canals)
In the not-so-distant past, if you had a tooth with a diseased nerve, it would probably have to be extracted. Today, with root canal therapy, odds are the tooth can be saved and with it... your smile!
Teeth needing root canals often cause pain and swelling. After a thorough examination, Dr. Hagley can take care of your discomfort quickly and professionally. In most cases, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure that causes little or no discomfort. While Grand Rapids Dental Care can provide care for patients needing root canal therapy, Dr. Hagley also maintains an extensive network of dental specialists to whom he can refer patients needing specialized care.
What is a root canal?
A root canal is a procedure that treats problems of the tooth's core (the pulp). The pulp is the soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It lies within the tooth and extends from the crown of the tooth to the tip of the root. When the pulp becomes diseased or injured and cannot repair itself, it dies. The most common cause of pulp death is a cracked tooth or a deep cavity. Both of these problems can allow germs (bacteria) to enter the pulp and cause an infection inside the tooth. Without treatment, pus builds up at the root tip in the jaw bone, forming an abscess, which can cause permanent damage to the bone. Years ago, teeth with diseased or injured pulps had to be removed. Luckily, the development of root canal treatment has given dentists a safe way of saving teeth and alleviating the pain and swelling that accompanies an infected pulp.
Root Canal treatment can usually be performed in a single visit. During the procedure, Dr. Hagley removes the diseased pulp, and then cleans and seals the pulp chamber and root canal(s). Generally, the tooth requires a crown to return strength following root canal therapy. A tooth treated with a root canal can last a lifetime as long as the teeth and gums are well cared for with thorough home care and regular dental checkups.
The Steps of a Root Canal treatment:
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Your Search for a Grand Rapids Dentist is Over!
Call today and reserve your appointment with Dr. Mike Hagley. From our Grand Rapids dental office, we practice comprehensive dentistry for families in the Hibbing, Nashwauk, Deer River, and greater Itasca County areas. We look forward to helping you achieve a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles.