Root canal therapy is a common dental procedure used to treat a severely damaged or infected tooth. If you have been experiencing pain or discomfort in your teeth, it is possible that you may need to receive this treatment.

What is a Root Canal?

This process is done in order to remove the unhealthy or infected pulp from the center of the tooth. The soft tissue that makes up the pulp contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. It can be quite painful and uncomfortable when this mass becomes infected or inflamed. Once it’s removed by a dentist, your tooth will be protected from further deterioration or damage.

Signs You Might Need a Root Canal

Severe tooth pain
If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, especially when you bite down or chew, it is possible that you may need a root canal. This pain may be a sign of an infection or inflammation in the pulp of the tooth.
Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
If you are experiencing sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, especially when it lingers after the temperature has been removed, it may be a sign that the pulp of your tooth is damaged or infected.
Swollen or tender gums
Your gums becoming swollen or sensitive around the damaging tooth is another indication that you might require root canal therapy. Your gums may swell due to acidic waste from the pulp tissue’s decomposition. In addition to foul breath and a bad taste in your mouth, infected teeth may cause gum boils.
Discoloration of the tooth
Your tooth can become discolored due to an infected pulp and look grayish-black as a result. Tooth discoloration can also be brought on by other factors, such as neglecting oral hygiene, drinking substances that stain teeth, or injury to the tooth’s inner structure. It’s usually better to visit our dentist in Lively to have a stained tooth examined.
Loose tooth
Due to the ability of a dead nerve tooth to form an abscess beneath its roots, an infected tooth may feel looser. This may give the impression that the tooth has more space to move around. If you have any reason to be concerned about your teeth make sure to consult with a dentist near you immediately.

What are the Benefits of a Root Canal?

Root canal therapy near you can help to relieve pain, prevent further infection, and save a tooth from extraction. It is a safe and effective procedure that has a high success rate. With proper care, a tooth that has had a root canal can last a lifetime.

Here are some of the primary advantages of root canal therapy:

• Pain relief
• Preservation of tooth
• Improved oral health
• Long-lasting results
• Enhanced appearance

FAQs

What are the signs that a root canal is needed?
If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, swollen gums, discoloration, or a loose tooth, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will perform an examination and take X-rays to determine if a root canal is necessary to save the tooth. Early intervention is important to prevent further damage and reduce the need for more extensive dental work.

How successful are root canals?
Root canals have a high success rate and are generally considered a safe and effective way to treat infected or inflamed tooth pulp. According to the American Association of Endodontists, the success rate of a root canal is approximately 95%.

Could there be complications after a root canal?
Unlike any dental procedure, there are some potential complications after a root canal. Although there are rare risks and complications that can occur which include:

• Infection
• Discomfort
• Damage to adjacent teeth
• Nerve damage
• Fractured teeth

With proper care, a tooth that has had a root canal can last a lifetime. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to determine if a root canal is necessary. Visit Morris Dental Group if you are considering root canal therapy in Lively or any other dental treatments. We have a team of experts who can help and guide you about the right treatment options to address your dental concerns.

Set up your appointment today and get a healthier and beautiful smile!