What is a root canal?
Root canals are traditionally associated with severe dental pain. Over the years, advancements in general dentistry have made treating root canals less painful and quicker to treat. Here is your brief overview of what a root canal involves and what to expect.
WHAT IS A ROOT CANAL?
If a tooth becomes infected, badly damaged, or starts to decay, a root canal might be required. A root canal removes the pulp of the tooth and provides a legitimate alternative to completely extracting a tooth. Root canals allow patients to keep their original teeth for as long as possible, resulting in better oral health.
SITUATIONS THAT MAY REQUIRE A ROOT CANAL
Excessive decay, large fillings, tooth infection, damage to a tooth, or constant work on the same tooth may all cause a root canal.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A TOOTH INFECTION?
A tooth infection, which we traditionally call an abscessed tooth, can be very painful. If you have a jump in pain to a certain area of your mouth, you may have a tooth infection. Overtime, the pain will expand to the neck and jaw and may even make chewing food problematic. To avoid tooth infection, be sure you have regular dental exams and tell your dentist about any tooth pain you have. Other symptoms of an abscessed tooth are: changes in the color of teeth, the formation of a pustule in the gums, gum swelling or reddening, heightened sensitivity to hot and cold, a foul taste in the mouth, fever, or bad breath that won’t go away after brushing.
HOW TO TREAT TOOTH INFECTION
A root canal procedure can address a tooth infection. A root canal is no different than a normal dental filling. During a root canal, your dentist will create a small hole in the infected tooth, extract the pulp and bacteria, and then seal it to prevent further infection.
Dr. Natalya Carmichael
General and Cosmetic Dentistry, Rancho Penasquitos, CA
(858) 484-2560
9728 Carmel Mountain Rd. Suite B,
San Diego, CA 92129
