When a tooth develops an infection, you may need more than a filling to treat the issue and save your tooth. You could benefit from an endodontic treatment that addresses concerns in the interior of your tooth. In today’s blog, your Celina, TX, dentist talks about how we keep smiles whole and stop discomfort with a root canal procedure.
The Causes and Risks of an Infected Tooth
How does a tooth become infected? Multiple layers make up each tooth. The outermost protects the tooth, the sensitive dentin beneath makes up most of the tooth structure, and at the center is the pulp, the nerve center. An infection means that bacteria have reached the pulp, which can happen due to an untreated cavity or injury to the tooth. Warning signs include tooth sensitivity when you eat or drink, toothaches, pain when you bite down or chew, swelling, or even a discharge from the tooth, along with aches in the face and jaw. When these symptoms arise, see us right away for a diagnosis!
Steps to Keep You Comfortable
We want to ensure your comfort during the treatment. We begin the root canal procedure by taking digital x-rays so we can see the position and severity of the infection and plan the treatment in detail. We also administer a local numbing agent to the tooth, and can offer sedation to help you enjoy a calm and relaxed state with little to no memory of the procedure afterward. Most people find receiving a root canal to be comparable to a simple filling placement, so don’t let anxiety stand between you and restorative treatment that can preserve your smile.
The Root Canal Procedure
Once you’re properly prepared and ready, we will open the tooth to access and remove any tissues within. We then clean the interior of the tooth and the root canals. Our team will add a special restorative material known as gutta percha to the inside of the tooth, and in most cases, cap it with a dental crown. We will custom-make the crown to ensure it looks natural and provide a balanced bite, while also protecting the tooth for years to come. Our team will then discuss routine six-month visits for checkups and cleanings, and better oral hygiene habits at home to protect your tooth.
If you have any questions about how we treat an infected tooth and protect your smile, then contact our team today to learn more.
Schedule Your Endodontic Procedure with Celina Family Dentistry!
We want to make sure your infection doesn’t lead to a missing tooth. To learn more about treating an infected tooth, talk to a member of our team today at Celina Family Dentistry at (214) 851-0130 today!
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