Root canal treatment is an often straightforward procedure to relieve dental pain and save your teeth. Patients typically need a root canal when there is inflammation or infection in the roots of a tooth.
Signs of needing a root canal:
Endodontic treatment is necessary when the pulp, the soft tissue inside the root canal, becomes inflamed or infected.
The inflammation or infection can have a variety of causes
- deep decay
- repeated dental procedures on the tooth
- a crack or chip in the tooth.
- an injury to a tooth may cause pulp damage even if the tooth has no visible chips or cracks.
If pulp inflammation or infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess.
Other signs:
- Severe pain while chewing or biting
- Pimples on the gums
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the sensation has been removed
- Swollen or tender gums
- Deep decay or darkening of the gums
What happens during a root canal:
During root canal treatment, an endodontist who specializes in such treatment carefully removes the pulp inside the tooth, cleans, disinfects, and shapes the root canals, and places a filling to seal the space.
For the first few days after treatment, your tooth may feel sensitive, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. Discomfort can be relieved with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Follow your endodontist’s instructions carefully.
Contact our office if you have any questions about root canals or if you think you may need one.
Add a Comment