Root Canal Treatment Can Save an Infected or Damaged Tooth

Determining Your Candidacy

Although some infections can develop free of any signs, patients often suffer a toothache, which can take varying forms. You may have constant, throbbing pain. In many cases, discomfort will worsen in response to pressure or temperature changes. If you are experiencing any additional symptoms that indicate infection, your doctor may perform x-rays and other diagnostic testing:

• Chronic bad breath
• Gum inflammation
• Small abscesses on your gums
• A single tooth with severe internal discoloration

Our dentists may also use root canal therapy to treat a cracked tooth, as long as the crack has not extended down to your root.

What to Expect during the Procedure

Our dentists use very gentle techniques to minimize discomfort during root canal therapy. First, your dentist will remove all bacteria and infected material from your tooth. Your tooth will be completely numb during this process. If the infection is not too extensive, he can typically complete the entire procedure in a single visit. On the other hand, if you have a more severe infection, he will treat your tooth and wait for all inflammation to subside. This waiting period will make your final treatment easier and more comfortable, and guard against recurrence of the infection.

Once the inside of the tooth is cleaned, our dentists will reshape your root canals. Then your dentist will fill both your tooth and the canals with a soft rubber-like substance. Finally, we will place a custom-made dental crown. Your restoration will strengthen and protect the tooth and blend naturally with your surrounding teeth.

The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

If you have a dental infection, damaging bacteria have penetrated your tooth, affecting the soft inner pulp. Bacteria can then move from this pulp along the nerve endings and blood vessels. The worsening infection could cause significant discomfort, gum inflammation, and abscesses. Eventually, the infection could destroy your entire tooth. It could also spread to other teeth or your jawbone. In these situations, root canal therapy is often the only way to save your tooth and protect your overall oral health. Without this treatment, you would typically require extraction and extensive restorative treatment. In addition, the custom-made crown that you receive during your procedure will enhance the look of your smile, covering up any discoloration caused by infection.

Schedule an Appointment

Root canal therapy at NÜVA Smile could save your entire smile. If you are suffering from the symptoms of a dental infection, contact our office to learn whether root canal treatment is right for you.