Many people dread the thought of having a root canal. Still, there are times when this procedure can help improve the function of your mouth and teeth. If you have an infection or severe cavity in any of your teeth, this treatment may make the most sense. Your dentist has the knowledge and training you can feel good about to improve your oral health.
Otherwise known as an abscess, a tooth infection can cause intense pain and can even spread to other parts of the mouth and body. It occurs when bacteria create a pocket of pus in the root of a tooth. It can develop when a person does not pay attention to dental hygiene such as brushing and flossing. Also, people who consume high amounts of sugar are more prone to suffering from this infection. Both these situations can cause cavities, chips or cracks in the teeth. Bacteria enter the tooth from here and finds its way to the dental pulp.
The dentist will perform a root canal after diagnosing the patient with an abscessed tooth. The dentist can do this through a routine exam. If simple touching and tapping sensations on the tooth cause pain, the dentist has a good idea that the tooth is infected. X-rays can confirm this diagnosis. The dentist may also order a CT scan to see whether the infection has moved into the patient’s neck or surrounding areas.
In some cases, this procedure only requires one visit to the dentist’s office, though some dentists prefer two appointments. First, the dentist will numb the patient’s affected tooth and the area nearby. This will dull any pain and help the person feel more comfortable. After placing a rubber dam around the tooth to keep saliva away, the dentist drills into the tooth. The dentist will remove the pulp of the tooth, which contains blood vessels and nerves. Any decayed tissue and bacteria are also removed.
After cleaning the tooth, the dentist will usually disinfect the tooth with medication. It is then sealed to prevent further bacteria from entering. If the tooth is badly damaged, the dentist will likely place a crown over it to preserve its structure.
After a root canal, there may be some inflammation around the tooth. The tooth may also be sensitive for a few days. Over-the-counter medication can help with any discomfort the person feels. A successful procedure will free the patient of the abscess and reduce or eliminate tooth pain.
A tooth infection can have serious consequences. You should never ignore severe pain in your mouth. A dentist near you can evaluate your teeth and determine whether you need a root canal. Though this treatment has a negative reputation, it should not cause much discomfort. The results can be healthier teeth and peace of mind. If you believe you have an abscessed tooth, make an appointment with your dentist today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.bryancousindmd.com or call Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of the North Shore at (781) 443-8268 for an appointment in our Swampscott office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Root Canal Treatment in Swampscott, MA.
Wondering whether root canal therapy is in your near future? The only way to know is to make an appointment with a general dentist for a full oral evaluation. While most dental patients know they have a problem tooth, not all tooth infections cause pain.A tooth infection occurs when bacteria are able to get inside…
Thinking you need to undergo a root canal to save one of your teeth? A general dentist is the type of dental professional who typically performs this type of oral surgery often. The fact that root canal therapy is necessary to save an infected tooth makes it a good idea for patients to learn more…
If your dentist has recommended root canal treatment, you may feel worried, especially if you have heard all the rumors about the treatment. However, there is no need to worry – root canal therapy is a dental procedure performed to relieve tooth pain and extend the life of the tooth. The more you learn about…
A preventive dentist is a dental health professional whose services include procedures to protect the teeth and gums from developing problems. This dentist aims to keep your teeth healthy and appealing for the longest possible time.Major dental disorders are avoidable with preventive dental treatment. Preventing future problems and stress from oral health issues early could…
Invisalign® is gaining a large following because of its comfort and efficiency. More and more patients want to know how this system works. Knowing how this type of teeth straightening works can help motivate you to set your next appointment. Here are the details about how Invisalign straightens teeth.Research shows that this dental straightening system…
Teens undergo various challenges and physical transformations, such as treatments to align their teeth, which can significantly impact their self-esteem and confidence. Invisalign® has revolutionized how teens and their parents straighten their teeth. Invisalign for teens can boost their confidence without the need for wires and brackets of traditional braces.One of the main concerns teens…