Root canal therapy is often necessary when a tooth has become seriously infected. If left untreated, the infection can spread, causing significant pain and potential tooth loss. Our experienced dentists are equipped to determine whether a root canal can save your tooth and help you avoid more invasive procedures.
Several symptoms may indicate that you need a root canal, including:
Severe tooth pain when eating or biting down
Lingering tooth sensitivity or pain to hot or cold food or beverages
Darkening of the tooth (often indicating infection in the tooth pulp)
Extreme tenderness of the gums near the painful tooth
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional care as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
The term “root canal” refers to both a part of your tooth and a dental procedure. The root canal is the inner structure of the tooth, located between the tooth pulp (which contains nerves and blood vessels) and the roots. When the pulp becomes infected or damaged, it can cause pain and swelling.
The root canal procedure is designed to relieve this pain and remove the infection from the inside of the tooth. While the idea of a root canal can sound intimidating, the procedure is virtually painless, thanks to modern anesthesia and techniques. The pain you’re experiencing is caused by the infection, not the procedure itself, and a root canal can help restore your tooth and comfort.
There are several factors that can contribute to the need for a root canal, including:
Severe tooth decay that reaches the pulp
Cracked or chipped teeth, which can allow bacteria to enter and infect the pulp
Trauma to the tooth, which may cause damage or fracture, leading to infection
Deep cavities that go untreated and affect the tooth’s inner structure
A root canal procedure typically requires two appointments, depending on the severity of the infection. Here’s an overview of what to expect:
Numbing the Area: To ensure you feel no pain during the procedure, a local anesthetic is applied to the affected area.
Removing the Infected Pulp and Nerve Tissue: The dentist will drill an access hole into the tooth and use special dental tools to remove the infected pulp and nerves, which are the source of your pain.
Sealing the Tooth: After all infected tissue is removed, the dentist will either seal the tooth the same day with a temporary filling or provide a temporary crown until a permanent one can be placed.
Placing a Crown or Permanent Filling: Once the infection is completely cleared, the dentist will place a permanent crown or filling to seal the tooth and prevent future infections. This step may occur at a follow-up appointment.
Preventing the need for a root canal is possible with good oral hygiene practices. Here’s how you can protect your teeth:
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay.
Floss daily or use a dental pick to remove food particles and plaque from between teeth.
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams to catch potential issues early, before they turn into major problems.
Address cavities promptly: Get cavities filled as soon as they’re detected to prevent further damage to the tooth.
Maintaining good dental habits helps prevent the infections and damage that could lead to the need for root canal therapy.
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of a potential root canal, call us today at 410-666-9266 to schedule your appointment. Early intervention can prevent further damage and save your tooth.
Does a root canal hurt?
The procedure itself is not painful because local anesthesia is used to numb the affected area. Some discomfort may occur after the procedure as the area heals, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
How long does a root canal take?
A root canal typically takes one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case. More complicated infections may require additional time or a second visit to complete the procedure.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
If you leave an infected tooth untreated, the infection can spread, causing severe pain, swelling, and possibly tooth loss. In extreme cases, the infection may spread to other parts of the body, leading to more serious health issues.
Can a tooth with a root canal still get infected?
While rare, it is possible for a tooth to become reinfected after a root canal. This can happen if bacteria enter the tooth through cracks, or if the crown or filling does not fully seal the tooth. Regular checkups will help ensure the tooth stays healthy after the procedure.
How long will a tooth that has had a root canal last?
With proper care, a tooth that has had a root canal can last for many years, and in many cases, it can last a lifetime. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental checkups to ensure the longevity of your treated tooth.
