What is a root canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure that aims to relieve pain and save your tooth. If your tooth becomes critically infected, your Marvel Dental provider can remove the bacteria and any dead or dying tissue. This allows them to protect your tooth and alleviate your pain.
What causes a tooth infection?
Roots and other tissues within your teeth can become infected with bacteria as a result of damage to your tooth or from an ongoing cavity. If left untreated, the infected tissue may spread into the root or pulp of the tooth. You should get care from a skilled dentist like Dr. Gazu because it can lead to a host of other problems if the infection spreads.
What are the symptoms of a tooth infection?
Signs and symptoms of an infected tooth may include:
- Inflamed gums
- Tooth soreness while chewing
- Severe tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Pus coming from around your tooth
- Painful aching in your jaw and mouth
- Tooth darkening in color
- A bump on your gum that looks like a small pimple
An infected tooth can become very painful relatively quickly, especially if you don’t seek professional care.
What should I expect during a root canal procedure?
At Marvel Dental, Dr. Gazu can usually mend your tooth in one or two appointments. She may order X-rays to determine the extent of damage to the tooth that requires a root canal.
When it’s time for your root canal, Dr. Gazu uses a local anesthetic to numb the region and ensure your comfort. If needed, she can stick a small sheet of rubber, or dental dam, around your tooth to protect it and keep it clean during the procedure. After the anesthesia is applied, Dr. Gazu makes a tiny access hole in your tooth to find and treat the area of infection in the root.
Dr. Gazu then removes the infected and damaged pulp using small files and washes away any debris with water. Once all the damaged substance is extracted, she either places a temporary filling on your tooth or seals it until you return for a permanent crown.
If you notice signs or symptoms of a tooth infection, call Marvel Dental or schedule an appointment online today.
