Potential Signs That You Need A Root Canal
Do you have regular pain in a tooth, a persistent discomfort that seems to radiate at times? If so, this could be one sign you have a dental infection that needs immediate attention! In today’s blog, your Independence, MO, dentist explains when we need to have our smile treated with endodontic care, and what the root canal process will involve.
An infection develops when harmful oral bacteria is able to reach your tooth’s nerve center, the inner pulp. The pulp is surrounding by dentin and protected by the outer layer of enamel, but an untreated cavity or an injury that cracks or chips a tooth could expose the inner tissues, and the pulp as well. Warning signs may include tooth sensitivity, toothaches, swelling near the tooth, headaches, jaw pain, and a discharge from the tooth. If you experience one or more of these warning signs, then let us know. Lack of treatment could mean the tooth requires extraction to prevent the spread of infection, or that it could simply become lost!
We begin treatment by administering a local anesthetic and sedation to ensure you feel comfortable. We then open the tooth to remove the infected tissues from within. We next clean the inside of the tooth, and then add a special restorative material known as gutta percha. The final step involves placing a crown. The treatment often preserves the tooth and prevents the need for extraction, so you maintain a full and healthy smile. To avoid future cases of tooth decay or infection, be sure you brushing and floss daily, maintain a healthy diet, and see us for checkups and cleanings every six months!
Let’s talk a little more about crowns. The crown will act as the visible portion of your newly-repaired tooth, ensuring it looks natural and is safeguarded against further injury. Using CAD/CAM technology, we design and fabricate a custom-made one, often using strong and lifelike materials like ceramic. We then place the restoration in the same visit, ensuring you enjoy a full and beautiful smile following treatment! If you have any questions about identifying, preventing, or treating infected teeth, or about our lifelike restoration options, then contact our team today. We want to help you enjoy a optimal oral health!
We want to prevent your tooth from becoming lost by providing a safe and comfortable restorative treatment. To learn more about our restorative treatment options, schedule a consultation by contacting Independence Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Independence, MO, today at 816-350-0808. We also proudly serve patients who live in Independence, Lee’s Summit, and all surrounding communities.