When a tooth starts to hurt, this could mean decay or possibly the early stages of a dental infection. In order to halt discomfort and prevent the loss of your tooth, your El Paso, TX, dentists may suggest a root canal. This safe and comfortable endodontic treatment can restore the tooth and protect your smile from spreading infection or suffering a lost tooth!
What Causes an Infected Tooth?
Dental infections develop when our inner pulp, the group of living tissues within the tooth that keeps it alive and healthy, come into contact with harmful bacteria. Typically, the outer layers of enamel protect the inner pulp and layers of dentin, but if enamel becomes eroded due to poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup, or if a tooth ends up cracked or chipped, then we may need to offer a restorative treatment. Otherwise, infection could eventually cause the tooth to essentially die and require extraction to prevent the spread of infection. Don’t risk the stability of your smile, let us know if you encounter persistent tooth sensitivity and toothaches, pain when eating, swelling near a tooth, a discharge from a tooth, or headaches and fever.
How Does a Root Canal Save a Tooth?
We start by ensuring you feel comfortable and relaxed, which means administering a local anesthetic. Next, we may discuss sedation for patients with anxiety regarding the procedure. We open the tooth to remove the infected tissue from within. Afterward, we clean the inside of the tooth and add a restorative material. Once this material cures, we cap the tooth with a crown. Created from strong and durable materials, we often take steps to ensure the crown looks natural and blends with your smile. In as little as one to two visits, we can treat your infection and ensure your tooth remains strong and healthy moving forward.
Protecting Your Other Teeth
To avoid infection, control plaque buildup by brushing and flossing your teeth daily. Also, make time to see our team for a checkup and cleaning as well. These steps remove plaque and help reduce the risk of decay and gum disease. You should also wear mouthguards when playing sports to limit the risk of cracked or chipped teeth, and also cut back on sugary foods and drinks, which feed harmful oral bacteria. If you have any questions about restorative dentistry, then contact our team today.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO, TX ABOUT ENDODONTIC TREATMENT
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, our team is ready to help tackle your aching tooth and return your smile to optimal health and function. For more information on our restorative procedures, contact your El Paso, TX, dentists at Sunny Smiles on Dyer Street by calling 915-859-7000.