What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that treats infections or damage in a tooth’s pulp. The pulp is the soft tissue inside your tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. If the pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, injury, or repeated dental procedures, it can cause intense pain and discomfort. The infection can spread without treatment, leading to more severe issues, including tooth loss. Root canals help preserve the tooth and eliminate the source of pain by removing the infected tissue, cleaning the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further infection.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
The root canal procedure involves several steps, but thanks to modern technology and anesthesia, it is typically no more uncomfortable than getting a regular filling. Here’s what you can expect:
- Diagnosis and Preparation: Before performing a root canal, we will thoroughly examine your tooth, including taking X-rays, to determine the extent of the infection and assess whether a root canal is necessary.
- Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort during the procedure, we will use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. You may feel a slight pinch when we administer the anesthesia, but you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure.
- Accessing the Tooth: We make a small opening in the top of the tooth to access the pulp and remove any infected or damaged tissue.
- Cleaning and Shaping: Once we’ve removed the pulp, we carefully clean and shape the tooth’s interior to eliminate any remaining bacteria. This step is critical to ensure the tooth’s full disinfection before we seal it.
- Sealing the Tooth: After cleaning the tooth, we fill it with a special biocompatible material that seals the tooth to prevent further infection.
- Restoration: Finally, a crown is placed over the tooth to restore strength and function. The crown protects the tooth and helps it blend naturally with your other teeth.
How to Tell If You Need a Root Canal
There are several signs that you may need a root canal. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to consult with one of our expert dentists at KB Dental:
- Severe Tooth Pain: This pain often occurs when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth.
- Lingering Sensitivity: You may experience sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers long after removing the source.
- Swelling or Tenderness: Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth is another sign of infection.
- Tooth Discoloration: A tooth darker than the surrounding teeth could indicate an infection.
- Recurring Pimple-like Bump on the Gums: This can indicate an ongoing infection at the tooth’s root.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait for them to worsen. Early intervention can help preserve your tooth and prevent more serious complications.
Tips to Avoid Root Canals
While some root canals are unavoidable due to trauma or severe infection, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of needing one. Here are a few preventative tips:
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Brush at least twice daily and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent cavities from forming.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule dental exams and cleanings every six months to catch any problems early before they become more serious.
- Treat Cavities Early: Fill cavities early to prevent them from reaching the pulp of the tooth, which could lead to infection.
- Protect Your Teeth: If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a nightguard. Also, avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens to protect your teeth from damage.
By maintaining good oral hygiene and taking proper care of your teeth, you can reduce the need for root canals and ensure the health of your smile for years to come.
Schedule Your Root Canal Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or suspect you may need a root canal, don’t wait any longer. Call KB Dental today to schedule a consultation with one of our expert dentists. Don’t let tooth pain keep you from enjoying your life—get the help you need today!
