|
Root canals are tiny passageways that branch off from beneath the top of the tooth, coursing their way vertically downward, until they reach the tip of the root. A diseased inner tooth brings an array of problems including pain and sensitivity. Root canal therapy is a treatment with a very high success rate, and involves removing the diseased tissue, stopping the spread of infection and restoring the healthy portion of your tooth, to prevent further pain and infection. With new, advanced pain management in dental care, root canal therapy is a relatively simple procedure with little to no discomfort involved. There is no need to worry about any pain involved with your root canal because, if anything, your pain will only be eliminated through the process. Root canal therapy is an appropriate and safe way for dentists to save your teeth. What is Root Canal Therapy? Your tooth is made up of three main components: a hard protective shell called enamel, a softer middle layer called dentin and a soft tissue inner layer called dental pulp. If your layer of dental pulp is significantly traumatized, your tooth begins to slowly die, requiring the need for root canal therapy to prevent or eliminate infection and tooth loss. Root canal therapy involves disinfecting and cleansing your tooth and removing debris from the coronal pulp chamber and canals associated with it. Once your affected tooth's canals are cleaned and shaped, they are filled with materials to prevent pain and infection from recurring. After your root canal therapy, you should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it fully restored by your dentist. Proper oral hygiene is essential in maintaining your newly restored tooth. Make sure you maintain regular brushing, flossing and check-ups with your dentist. Signs You May Need Root Canal Therapy If you exhibit pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, discoloration of your tooth and swelling or tenderness in your gums, you may need root canal therapy as these signs point to an infection. Sometimes, there are no symptoms present when your tooth is infected. That's why regular visits to your dentist are critical to preventing and detecting dental problems in their earliest stages. In other circumstances, signs that you may need a root canal include, but are not limited to: • Severe tooth pain upon chewing or application of pressure
• Prolonged sensitivity and pain to hot or cold temperatures
• Discoloration of the tooth
• Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums
• A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums The pain you exhibit is often related to your toothache and not the actual procedure of the root canal, as many have often associated it with. If you exhibit any of the signs listed, it is important to consult your Bolingbrook dentist to decide what the best treatment for your infection would be.
Sean Hartmen is the author for Dr. Rani Seeth of Bolingbrook Dental Care, an experienced dentist in Bolingbrook. Providing the most quality care, Dr. Seeth offers implant restoration, veneers, bonding, crowns and teeth whitening in Bolingbrook for patients of every age.
|
