If you experience sudden and severe pain in your smile, then you may have a serious cavity, or possibly an infected tooth. Immediate treatment will be crucial for stopping the spread of infection and preventing the loss of your tooth. Fortunately, with a root canal procedure our team can preserve your tooth. Let’s answer a few common questions about this vital endodontic procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canal Therapy
Question: How do teeth become infected?
Answer: A tooth becomes infected when the sensitive inner pulp, the group of living tissues that oversees the flow of blood and nutrients in and out of the tooth, comes into contact with bacteria. This could happen if the tooth becomes cracked or broken, or if a cavity goes untreated and is allowed to spread through the tooth. Without treatment, the infection could eventually “kill” the tooth and enable the spread of infection to surrounding teeth.
Question: Will my tooth hurt?
Answer: Yes, an infection will lead tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, as well as toothache or pain when eating or biting down. You may experience swelling near the aching tooth, or even a discharge for the tooth itself. Fever, headaches, and jaw pain may develop as well. Don’t ignore persistent pain in or around your teeth, talk to our team right away so we can perform a diagnosis and pinpoint the cause of your discomfort.
Question: How does a root canal treat a smile?
Answer: A root canal is the process in which we open the tooth and remove the infected tissue from within. Once we accomplish this, we clean the inside of the tooth and fill it with a restorative material known as gutta percha. The final step is to create and place a dental crown, which looks like natural tooth structure and protects the tooth from further decay or infection. The entire procedure usually only takes one visit to compete.
Question: Will the procedure be comfortable?
Answer: Often, people find the experience comparable to receiving a simple dental filling. We will administer a local anesthetic to numb the nerves around the tooth. For nervous patients, we can also discuss potential sedation options as well. If you have any questions about the root canal procedure, or about safeguarding your smile against infection, then contact our team today.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO ABOUT ENDODONTIC TREATMENT
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, our team is ready to treat your infected tooth and restore health and comfort to your smile. If you have questions about restorative dentistry, or if you want to set up an appointment, you can reach our East El Paso dental practice on 10039 Dyer St., at 915-859-7000!