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Periodontics Care and Root canals
The Effects of Tooth Decay
When decay makes a small hole in the tooth, we call that a cavity. If a cavity is left untreated, decay can spread until it makes its way to the innermost part of the tooth, known as the root canal.
Inside the root canal, the tooth’s most sensitive tissues, called the pulp, are stored. When the pulp becomes infected, you may experience intense pain. Once the pulp is infected, it can’t recover and must be removed.
Signs and Symptoms
You may need root canal therapy if you experience:
- Severe pain while chewing or biting
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Sensitivity to hot and cold around the area
- Swollen or tender gums
- Darkening of the gums
The Root Canal Procedure
When you come to our office, your teeth and mouth will be examined to assess the state of your oral health. You may have X-rays or scans taken so we can see the extent of decay prior to the procedure.
Before we start, you’ll be given a local anesthetic so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. We’ll then begin by drilling a small hole into your tooth for access to the root canal. The infected tissue will be scooped out little by little until it’s completely removed.
If your tooth isn’t strong enough once the root canal procedure is finished, we can put a dental crown on it. Crowns strengthen and protect teeth while looking natural.
Once your procedure is done, you’ll be given aftercare instructions to ensure your recovery is as quick and uncomplicated as possible.
Tooth Extractions
We try our very best to save your tooth, but in some cases, an extraction is necessary for the benefit of your overall health. In this case, we’ll work with you so you know your options after your tooth is extracted.
If your tooth must be removed, we offer natural-looking dental implants so you can restore your smile.
FAQs
Does root canal therapy hurt?
Though root canal therapy has a reputation for being painful, most patients report feeling a sensation similar to getting a tooth filling.
You’ll be given a local anesthetic for the procedure, so you shouldn’t experience any pain. If you do, let us know immediately.
Should my tooth hurt after the procedure?
Postoperative discomfort in the following days is normal, you will be prescribed an anti inflammatory medication to reduce your symptoms. If you think there has been a complication, Please call our office as soon as possible so the cause of your pain can be determined.
What is root canal retreatment?
Sometimes small or complicated root structures make it difficult for all infected tissues to be cleared out completely. If this is the case, the infection can return and spread again.
In this scenario, a tooth will be treated with another round of root canal therapy, focusing on removing the rest of the tissue from the tooth.
What is a hot tooth?
A hot tooth is a severely infected tooth that is extremely painful and doesn’t respond well or at all to local anesthesia.
How can you tell if a tooth is dead?
One of the most obvious signs of a dead tooth is a change in color, turning yellow, brown, grey, or black. Aside from color, you may notice bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth, or swelling around your gum line.
Can root canal therapy cause headaches?
A headache after root canal therapy should go away after a few days. If it doesn’t go away, or if it gets worse, call our office right away. Your infection may have returned, or some other complication could’ve come up.
How long does root canal therapy take?
Most root canal procedures can be finished in one appointment taking about 90 minutes. Some more complex cases may require another appointment of the same length.Type your paragraph here.