A root canal is, itself, a procedure used to treat an infected or severely decayed tooth. A toothache that necessitates a root canal is usually considered a dental emergency for several reasons. For one thing, they are often extremely painful and can’t always be managed with pain medication or cold compresses, so you will likely be searching for someone to look at the tooth and alleviate the pain right away.
But, getting a root canal right away also protects you from some rather serious complications that occur when these issues are left untreated, including the death of the nerves and loss of the tooth entirely. Here’s everything you need to know about root canals, and why you should seek immediate care.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy is often needed when you are dealing with a severe infection that has spread to the root area of the tooth. The dentist will first numb the area and remove the decayed tissue from the tooth, exposing the root.
Then, the dentist will clean the root and remove any traces of dead or affected tissues. After the tooth is cleaned, the dentist will apply a filling to close the site and restore the full strength and function of your tooth. In some cases, if the dentist has to remove quite a bit of tooth tissue, you may need a dental crown to go over the natural tooth for a full functioning restoration and added protection.
How Do I Know If I Need a Root Canal?
The usual signs that your tooth is badly infected and might need root canal therapy are as follows:
- Throbbing pain that lasts more than a day
- Sensitivity to hot and cold food or drinks
- Pain when chewing
- Heightened pain when eating sweets especially
- Swollen or discolored gums around the tooth
However, an infection is not the only reason why you might need a root canal. For example, severe dental trauma can also require root canal therapy to properly treat the tooth and restore its function.
If you notice any of these signs, we encourage you to reach out to EaDo Family Dental as soon as possible to book a same-day dental appointment.
Note that a tooth infection often requires time until it reaches the point of root canal therapy. If you stay on top of your oral hygiene and see the dentist at least 2 times a year, you can effectively address issues with your teeth before they can create more permanent damage.
EaDo Family Dental Is Here to Help
If you’re looking for a dentist to treat your infected tooth, or you have other pressing dental needs, EaDo Family Dental is happy to assist you. Our comprehensive services are here to help your entire family improve their dental health and enhance their smiles!
Book an appointment with Dr. Bianca Williams or Dr. John Ma today, and come visit our practice to gain access to your most essential dental health care services.
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