More than 15 million root canal procedures are performed every day. Root canal treatment is very efficient and probably one of the most misunderstood dental procedures. A root canal treatment is recommended when the tooth’s nerve or pulp is damaged or infected, typically caused by decay, trauma, gum disease, cracks, or repeated dental procedures. It is advised if the patient is experiencing severe pain, sensitivity, swelling, or tenderness in the gums or a persistent pimple on the gums. Many people think a root canal is painful, but root canal therapy aims to alleviate the pain. Root canals can be a scary thought, but they're a relatively simple and effective procedure to save a damaged or infected tooth.
Saving your natural teeth is a better option. You can never really replace a natural tooth. While most artificial teeth do not last long, requiring frequent visits, a root canal can last a lifetime. A root canal is a procedure used to treat an infected or inflamed tooth. During a root canal procedure, the dentist removes the nerve and pulp, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed by a filling. If not given the due treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected, causing abscesses. Root canal treatment is not something to be taken lightly, but it’s also not something to be feared. Millions of root canal treatments are performed every day without incident.
The root canal procedure is not a lengthy process. Depending on the case, the treatment can be completed in just one or two visits. According to a study published in the International Endodontic Journal, root canal-treated teeth can last even a lifetime with proper care, especially when combined with quality tooth restorations like dental crowns. However, if cracks or decay occur around the filling, you need to contact your dentist for an evaluation. Because of modern technologies and anesthetics, most patients will describe the procedure as “painless” and often with less discomfort during recovery compared to getting your natural tooth extracted.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal Treatment:
If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain that won’t go away, it could signify that you need a root canal. An infected or inflamed pulp, the soft tissue inside your tooth, often causes pain.
Another common sign that you may need a root canal is if your tooth is sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. This often indicates that the nerve inside your tooth is damaged or infected.
Swelling and redness around a tooth can also signify that you need a root canal. This is often caused by an infection that has spread to the surrounding tissue.
If your tooth has started to darken in color, it could be a sign that the blood supply to the tooth is being cut off. This can happen if the pulp inside your tooth is infected or inflamed.
Pimple-like buttons on the gums can also signify that you need a root canal. These bumps, called abscesses, can form when an infection spreads to the end of the tooth’s roots.
Do a proper early checkup and investigation if you have a toothache. By being aware of the signs that you may need a root canal, you can catch the problem early and prevent more severe issues down the road. Don't delay! For more information about root canal treatment and oral health, please call Advanced Dental Center at (203) 945-0068 or contact us online.
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