A root canal is a procedure that removes the infected pulp from a tooth’s root, cleans it, and seals it off to prevent future infection. This treatment is necessary when the pulp becomes inflamed or infected. The inflammation or infection can be caused by deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, cracks or chips in the tooth, or trauma to the face. The infection can spread to other mouth areas without treatment, leading to severe complications.
Signs you may need a root canal include pain when chewing or biting down, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, swelling of the gums near the affected tooth, discoloration, and tenderness when pressure is applied. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visiting San Jose Smile Center Dr Howard Defaii as soon as possible is essential.
Root Canal Symptoms
- Severe and persistent toothache, especially when chewing or applying pressure to the affected tooth, can indicate an infected pulp inside the tooth.
- Even after the stimuli are removed, increased sensitivity to hot or cold substances can indicate pulp inflammation or infection.
- The gums around the affected tooth may become swollen, tender, or even develop a small pimple-like bump that oozes pus.
- The infected tooth may appear darker or discolored compared to neighboring teeth, indicating possible damage to the pulp.
- A persistent bad taste in the mouth or a foul odor may indicate an abscess or infection in the tooth.
- Difficulty biting or chewing, especially on the affected tooth, is due to increased sensitivity and discomfort.
The Procedure for Root Canals Treatments
First, the dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic. Then, they will drill a small hole into the tooth to access the pulp chamber. They will then remove the infected tissue and clean the chamber. Once clean, the dentist will fill the space with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. Finally, they will seal the tooth with a crown to protect it from further damage.
After your root canal, you may experience some discomfort for a few days. However, over-the-counter pain medication can help ease any pain. It is important to avoid chewing on the affected tooth until it has fully healed. You should also avoid eating hard foods until the area has completely recovered.
Root canal treatment aims to preserve the natural tooth, alleviate pain, and prevent the spread of infection, avoiding tooth extraction whenever possible. If you experience severe tooth pain or suspect an infected tooth, visit San Jose Smile Center Dr. Howard Defaii at 827 Blossom Hill Rd suite e-3, San Jose, CA 95123, or call (408) 227-5012. Early diagnosis and timely root canal treatment can save the tooth and prevent complications, promoting long-term oral health and overall well-being.