A root canal procedure is performed when the nerve of a tooth is infected. This can happen when a deep cavity goes untreated. The infection can also result from a cracked tooth, a chipped tooth, or an injury to the tooth.
When a tooth is infected, it may begin to hurt or feel strange. Your tooth may be tender when you bite down. You may notice some swelling around or near the infected tooth. You may receive a deep, throbbing pain whenever you put pressure on the tooth.
Symptoms of Root Canal Infection
A root canal procedure is considered necessary when there is an infection in the pulp of the tooth. The infection can be caused by a number of factors, including untreated tooth decay or a crack or chip in the tooth. The symptoms can include:
- Severe tooth sensitivity.
- A painful toothache.
- Red, inflamed gums.
- Swelling and tenderness in the gums.
- Pus oozing from the gums.
- Cracking and chipping of the tooth.
Explain The Root Canal Procedure
When a tooth is severely decayed or becomes infected, it may have to be removed. A root canal treatment is a dental procedure that treats an infected tooth by removing the damaged nerve tissue and replacing it with a filling. This procedure can be completed in one or two office visits.
During your root canal treatment, you will be numbed with a local anesthetic. Once the area is completely numb, your dentist will use a special tool called an endodontic file to remove the nerve. Any bacteria or debris will be cleaned out from the tooth. Then, the tooth will be sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.
Recovery From A Root Canal Procedure
After a root canal, a patient may experience some tenderness and sensitivity. It is important to avoid chewing or biting near the treated tooth until it has fully healed, which may take about two weeks. While the tooth is healing, it can be protected by a soft diet, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, soft-cooked meat, and soups.
After the root canal is complete, the restoration or crown can be placed over the treated tooth. This restoration will fully protect the tooth from further damage while also restoring the tooth’s shape, size, and color.
Alternatives To A Root Canal Treatment
If a tooth has minor decay or damage, that tooth can be restored with a filling. If a tooth is cracked, a crown may be an option. Typically, the earlier a cavity is treated, the better.
To learn more about the dental services offered at North End Dental, call (719) 471-1900 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit Dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, at 1705 N Weber St, Colorado Springs, CO 80907.
