That nagging toothache you’ve been dealing with? It’s not a sign to ignore. As dreaded as the words “root canal” are, this procedure can save you from a painful abscess. How do you distinguish between a common toothache and an infection? Keep an eye out for these symptoms to know when it’s time to call the dentist:
The first sign is that you are experiencing regular pain. This indicates an issue with the roots of your teeth. The pain may come and go (occurring only when you chew) or be continuous. Pain that stops abruptly might feel like a relief, but it’s a sign that the nerves have died. If you wince when you eat hot or cold foods, an infection may be to blame for your sensitivity. Look at the tooth in question in the mirror - does it have a discolored appearance? Take note if your gums appear swollen or red. Other signs are if your tooth is chipped, cracked, or loose. When you notice these changes, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist ASAP.
What causes a root canal issue?
When the pulp (tissue within the root canal) becomes inflamed or infected, a root canal procedure is required to save the tooth. Deep decay of the tooth due to a cavity is a common cause of infections; so are chips and cracks, which make the teeth vulnerable to bacteria. Root canals are necessary for teeth that have had multiple procedures and large fillings. The best way to prevent a root canal is to brush and floss regularly, as well as to visit your dentist for a cleaning twice a year. Regular X-rays allow your dentist to look for early signs of tooth decay and use a filling to prevent further damage.
What happens during a root canal?
A local anesthetic will be administered to minimize your pain before any drilling begins. Then, a rubber dam will be applied so that the treatment area is kept dry. Once the procedure begins, the dentist will drill a hole in the root so that the tissue is accessible. Then, they will remove the infected nerves and pulp. The function of these nerves is to sense temperatures, so they can be removed without any danger to you. Then, the dentist will clean the tooth and seal it. They may wait to seal the tooth until the infection has cleared up, in which case they’ll send you home with medication and wait a week; you’ll receive a temporary filling to protect the tooth in the meantime. It’s highly recommended that you get a crown to protect the tooth to increase the chances of a successful root canal.
While no one wants a root canal procedure, neglecting to get one can cause the loss of the tooth. The discomfort of the procedure will be long forgotten when you eat your favorite foods and realize that you can do so without pain. No more wincing in sensitivity from hot and cold foods; get back to enjoying your meals! If you need a root canal in Fairmont, contact Bonasso and Kime. Our dentists can examine your teeth and determine which route of treatment is best for you.