A root canal is a tooth-saving procedure that treats an infected or at-risk tooth. When the internal anatomy of a tooth is compromised due to decay or damage, root canal therapy can often restore the health of the tooth, allowing it to remain in place.
How do you know if you need a root canal? There are signs to watch for that may indicate that root canal therapy is in order, and the sooner you seek treatment the better the chances that your tooth can be saved. Here’s what to look for and what to expect when it comes to root canals.
Common Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Persistent tooth pain. A toothache that doesn’t subside typically indicates an infection.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold. A tooth that is cracked or has a deep cavity may be sensitive to temperature changes.
- Darkening or discoloration of the tooth. A tooth that appears darker or a different color than your other teeth may have internal damage.
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums. Another sign of an infected tooth is swollen or tender gums around it.
- Presence of a pimple-like bump near the tooth. This is called an abscess, and it forms due to infection.
- Cracked or injured teeth. If a tooth has been cracked, broken, or bumped may have internal damage.
What Causes These Symptoms?
- Tooth decay reaching the pulp. A deep cavity or significant decay may expose the soft layers beneath the enamel, then dentin and pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue at the center of the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves, which is highly susceptible to infection due to the invasion of bacteria.
- Failed fillings. A filling that has loosened or has fallen out leaves the tooth susceptible to infection.
- Trauma to the tooth. A tooth that is bumped with enough force may have internal damage to the dental pulp.
What to Expect During a Root Canal Treatment
A typical root canal treatment plan will involve the following steps:
- Initial exam and X-rays. This is the diagnostic process to determine if a root canal is needed and the best course of treatment. An oral examination complete with digital X-rays will be conducted to evaluate the tooth in question.
- Local anesthesia and comfort-focused techniques. At the time of the procedure, anesthesia options will be discussed to determine what will make you the most comfortable. In most cases local anesthesia is all that is needed for a root canal.
- Removal of infected pulp. A small hole is made in the tooth to access the dental pulp and remove it from the tooth.
- Cleaning of the root canal. The root canal, the inner chamber of the tooth, will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
- Filling and sealing the tooth. The tooth will be filled and sealed to prevent future infection. In most cases a dental crown will need to be placed over the tooth to protect the structure.
- Post-treatment guidelines and follow-up care. You will be given instructions for after care to ensure comfort and effective healing. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled for a few weeks after the procedure to monitor your recovery.
Benefits of Getting a Root Canal When Needed
Many people put off getting a root canal out of fear or due to a busy lifestyle. But there are many reasons why it is beneficial to get the procedure taken care of sooner rather than later.
- Relief from pain and infection. A toothache can be terrible to endure. Getting a root canal will relieve your pain by removing the nerves from the inside of your tooth.
- Preservation of your natural tooth. If you wait too long to get a root canal, the tooth may become too damaged to save.
- Prevention of further dental complications. A root canal is a simpler procedure when it is taken care of at the first sign of a problem. The worse it gets the more complex the process and the higher the risk of tooth loss.
- Quick return to normal eating and daily activities. The sooner you get the root canal done, the sooner you can return to your normal schedule and eating routines.
Protect Your Oral Health With Early Root Canal Care
If you have a toothache or even severe sensitivity, call 973-740-9200 or contact us at Dentistry with a Smile to schedule an appointment. Early detection and treatment is proven to improve outcomes and lead to faster recovery. You don’t have to live in pain; get the relief you deserve with root canal therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Treatment
How long does a root canal take?
A root canal procedure may take anywhere from 30-90 minutes. The time it takes for each individual depends on a variety of factors such as the size of the tooth, the complexity of the root structure, and the severity of the situation.
Can I avoid a root canal with early treatment?
There are some ways to avoid root canal treatment, such as having cavities filled when they are small, wearing protective night guards and mouth guards, and practicing good oral hygiene habits daily. Scheduling dental check-ups every 6 months allows for early detection of oral health concerns.
Dentistry With a Smile provides comprehensive dental services including endodontic treatment in Livingston, NJ. Our family-friendly practice is dedicated to the delivery of personalized care and comfort for patients of all ages. Through the use of advanced technology and techniques, we offer exceptional care in a relaxing environment. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.