DO YOU HAVE A THROBBING TOOTHACHE? YOU MAY NEED A ROOT CANAL.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected, by removing the infected nerve and damaged pulp. After the nerve and pulp are removed, the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. A root canal is also called Endodontic treatment.
Many patients report that the procedure itself is as easy as having a filling placed. The pain and discomfort encountered before seeking dental care are usually far more painful, than the root canal procedure itself. It is wonderful to see the relief on the patient’s face when the feel better and see how simple a root canal can really be.
After the tooth has emerged through the gums, a tooth’s nerve is not extremely important to a tooth’s overall function. Its only function is to provide the feeling of cold or heat. The removal of a nerve will not affect the day-to-day functionality of the tooth.
Why Does the Pulp Need to Be Removed?
When nerve tissue or pulp is damaged, bacteria begin to multiply within the pulp chamber and causes it to deteriorate. The bacteria and other decayed debris will cause an infection, an abscessed tooth, which is usually very painful.
Signs You May Need A Root Canal
- Moderate to Severe pain when chewing or applying pressure
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
- Tenderness and swelling in surrounding area and nearby gums
- A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums
- Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures even after the heat or cold has been removed
What To Expect After Root Canal Procedure?
The root canal treatment should relieve the pain you feel. Sensitivity to temperature will be gone immediately. The feeling of pressure, as it is due to bacterial infection, may linger for a few days, but will be greatly reduced immediately.
In most cases, a tooth that has had a root canal will need a crown. This will keep you from recontaminating the tooth’s interior and will help prevent a tooth that was weakened by decay or fracture tooth from breaking.
DON’T PUT THAT TOOTHACHE ON HOLD ANY LONGER. CALL US TODAY TO RELIEVE YOUR PAIN.