A root canal is recommended on an infected tooth that can no longer be restored with a simple dental filling but can still be preserved instead of extracted. But, it takes a timely response to prevent further decay or damage to the tooth that can otherwise lead to tooth removal.
This read will delve into the reasons why you may need a root canal, the symptoms that indicate the treatment, and what you can expect during your root canal visit. This will help you take proper action to preserve your dental health.
Understanding Root Canals
A root canal treatment effectively saves a decayed or damaged tooth by eliminating and preventing infection. The process involves removing the infected tooth pulp within the root canals, medicating the tooth to resolve infection, and sealing off the canals to prevent future problems.
However, not all teeth can be saved with a root canal. If there is widespread infection or the tooth is too damaged beyond repair even with a dental crown, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. To avoid this, you should know when to visit your dentist for a possible root canal.
Causes of Root Canal
First, let us understand why you may consider a root canal:
- Deep decay – A large cavity can penetrate and affect the tooth pulp. This will cause an infection that needs to be treated with a root canal.
- Large cracks or chips – Large tooth cracks can also expose the tooth pulp to bacteria. This will require a root canal procedure to restore it to health and function.
- Dental trauma – Physical injury to the tooth, even without visible damage, can affect the pulp and will entail further treatment.
Symptoms Indicating Potential Need For a Root Canal
If you experience one of these symptoms, schedule a visit with your dentist immediately for urgent treatment.
- Severe tooth pain – Persistent and severe toothache, especially when biting, may indicate a tooth abscess.
- Prolonged sensitivity – Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, even after the source is removed.
- Swelling and tenderness – Tender and swollen gums may indicate an existing tooth infection.
- Discoloration – Dark tooth may suggest pulp damage.
- Pimple on gums – A pimple on the gums near the affected tooth indicates an abscess that needs urgent treatment.
Diagnostic Procedures
When you go to the dentist’s office with any of the symptoms listed above, the next step is to conduct diagnostic tests to determine if a root canal is necessary.
Diagnostic procedures may include clinical examination, X-rays, and pulp tests to determine the extent of the tooth damage, the health of the tooth’s pulp and nerves, and if there is an infection present.
What To Expect During Treatment
After taking your scans, the next steps of treatment should generally include:
- Anaesthesia – Local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area and improve your overall treatment experience.
- Pulp access and removal – Then, an opening will be made on the tooth crown to access the pulp chambers. And, using canal files, the infected pulp tissue is removed and the canal is prepared for the next step.
- Canal cleaning and disinfecting – Using irrigating solutions, bacteria are flushed from the tooth canals.
- Filling and sealing – When bacteria levels are controlled, the cleaned space is filled and sealed with biocompatible material to prevent reinfections.
- Final restoration – Lastly, a filling or crown is placed on the tooth to restore its function and appearance.
If needed, a canal medication will be placed inside the infected tooth to minimize and eliminate the infection. This is vital for the long-term success of the treatment.
Conclusion
Knowing the signs of root canal infection and the need for a root canal treatment can help you take proactive steps in managing your oral health and smile. With early intervention, your dentist can save your tooth and prevent more serious dental issues down the road.
If you think you may need a root canal, our dentists can help you out. Call us today to book your appointment!