Our last blog focused on how fillings help bring relief for a decayed tooth. But once a tooth becomes infected or develops an abscess, you may need a more extensive treatment option to enjoy relief. In today’s blog, your El Paso, TX, dentists talk about restoring smiles with an endodontic treatment known as root canal therapy.
The Causes of an Infected or Abscessed Tooth
An infection or abscess often means that harmful oral bacteria has reached the inner pulp, the nerve center of your tooth usually surrounded by dentin and protected by enamel. Poor oral hygiene, such as improper brushing and flossing and a diet high in sugar, could create plaque buildup that eroded enamel. An injury or damage from teeth grinding could also injure a tooth. Warning signs include pain when you bite and chew, toothaches and sensitivity when eating or drinking, headaches and jaw pain, swelling near the aching tooth, and even a discharge from it. If you experience pain in a tooth, let us know right away. Other reasons to undergo a root canal include fractured teeth, a failed root canal or filling, or a dislodged dental crown.
Ensuring a Comfortable Treatment Experience
We know people often tense up when we mention a root canal. This is because people often assume the procedure is a comfortable one. In fact, most people actually compare it to receiving a simple dental filling. To keep you comfortable, we will apply a local anesthetic to the area around the tooth, preventing discomfort. In addition, we can also offer sedation to help patients with anxiety enter a calm and relaxed state. Often, you will have little to no memory of the procedure at all! Don’t let your dental anxiety stand between you and a healthy smile, talk to us when you experience discomfort and let us know about your anxiety so we can help!
Root Canal Therapy
Now, once you’re comfortable we’re ready for the root canal. The endodontic procedure begins with our team opening the tooth to take out the tissues within. We then clean the interior of the tooth and add a special restorative filling material known as gutta percha. The tooth will then be capped with a custom and lifelike dental crown. Your smile looks natural, and you avoid the risk of worsening pain or tooth loss. If you have any questions about how we treated an infected or damaged tooth, then contact our team today to learn more.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO, TX, ABOUT RESTORING YOUR TOOTH
Let’s treat your aching tooth and help preserve your smile with endodontic treatment! If you’re ready to schedule a visit with our team, contact our Sunny Smiles location on N Zaragoza Rd in El Paso, TX at 915-849-9000.