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The term root canal often initiates thoughts of severe pain many people's minds, but, in reality, root canals are not painful. Their bad reputation is caused by the fact that people exhibit pain from the infected tooth more-so than the actual procedure. Root canal therapy is performed to save the damaged or dead pulp in the root canal of your tooth by cleaning the diseased pulp and reshaping the canal. When the pulp becomes infected as the result of a deep cavity or fracture that allows bacteria to enter into your root, it can die. The damaged or dead pulp creates increased blood flow and pressure is unable to be relieved. Pain in your tooth is often felt when biting down, chewing and applying hot or cold foods or drinks. It is through root canal therapy that pain is relieved and not worsened. How is Root Canal Therapy Performed? Root canal therapy can be performed in a single or multiple visits, depending on your individual case. If you have an infection or abscess in your tooth, your dentist may also choose to have you start antibiotics before completing the root canal in order to prevent further damage. When beginning treatment, your dentist may give you a local anesthetic to numb the tooth that is in need of root canal therapy. After your tooth is numb, your dentist can begin the procedure. Treatment begins with the initial removal of the tooth crown, or top, to allow access to the pulp tissue. Once the infected pulp tissue is exposed, it will be removed. The area surrounding and containing the pulp tissue is carefully cleaned, enlarged, and shaped to provide a clean, bondable surface for filling with permanent filler. This will help to prevent further infection and discomfort. After filling your tooth, a crown is fabricated to complete the rescue and restoration of your natural tooth. Signs you may Need Root Canal Therapy Sometimes, there are no symptoms present when your tooth is infected. 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 Root canal therapy is also necessary because your tooth will not heal by itself and without treatment the infection will spread. Pain will usually worsen until you are forced to seek emergency dental attention. The only alternative to a root canal is to have your tooth extracted, which is never an option you would want to take. Root canal therapy has a reputation of being painful, but most people report that the procedure itself is no more painful than having a filling placed.
If you are experiencing pain in your tooth, visit your Marietta dentist for further consultation, Your dentist will be able to examine the tooth causing you pain to further determine the underlying cause. After examination, your dentist will create an appropriate treatment plan to successfully save your tooth and eliminate your pain.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading cosmetic dentist in Marietta, Dr. Kirk Kimmerling. Providing the best in dental care that Marietta has to offer, Dr. Kimmerling is qualified to handle any dental need for patients of every age including teeth whitening, root canal therapy and veneers in Kennesaw and Marietta.
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