Root Canals
When a tooth is badly decayed or infected, our Ann Arbor, MI, dentists will perform a to repair and save the tooth. Without timely treatment, the tissue that surrounds the tooth will become infected and a dental abscess, or pocket of pus in a tooth or gums, will form.
Though it is often thought of as an unusually painful procedure, root canals are not much different from receiving a filling. You may dread having a root canal but it is one of the most effective ways to relieve the tooth pain you are feeling.
Here’s what you need to know about root canal causes, symptoms, and the procedure itself.
Causes of Root Canal Problems
Infection and inflammation of the tooth’s pulp tissue largely cause root canal problems. Oftentimes, infection sets in when there is deep tooth decay, like untreated dental cavities.
Cavities allow bacteria to work its way down to the center of the tooth over time where it may infect the pulp tissue. An opening in the protective enamel coating, such as a chipped or cracked tooth, can also lead to bacteria getting in contact with pulp.
Another major cause of pulp tissue damage is trauma to the tooth from a sports injury or automobile accident. If there has been trauma, it is critical that you seek treatment immediately as restorative dental procedures may need to be performed.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
Sometimes it can be difficult at times to know exactly when you are in need of root canal treatment. Other times, it is painfully obvious.
Whenever you notice pain, it is usually your mouth telling you something is wrong. It’s important to see our dentists as soon as possible for a full dental examination if you have begun experiencing any unusual symptoms.
A few of the symptoms to watch out for are:
- Constant and severe pain or pressure in your mouth
- Noticeable swelling and extreme sensitivity in your gums
- Sharp pain when you bite down on food
- Lingering pain after eating hot or cold foods
What to Expect During a Root Canal
A root canal is one of the most routine and effective dental procedures and can often be accomplished in just one visit to our Ann Arbor office.
To begin treatment, an anesthetic will be administered to numb the tooth and surrounding area. A small opening is then made in the surface of the affected tooth to give access to the pulp chamber and root canals.
Our dentists will remove the dead and dying pulp tissue from inside the narrow passageways with the aid of dental instruments and sometimes a microscope. The chamber and empty canals are cleaned, disinfected, and prepared to receive a filling of inert, biocompatible material.
Lastly, adhesive cement is used to seal the opening in the tooth, thus preventing future infection. Your tooth will be sensitive for a few days after treatment but discomfort can be resolved with over-the-counter pain medication.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have noticed measurable pain in your tooth, you may require a root canal. Our team of restorative dentists in Ann Arbor, MI, can discuss the routine dental procedure with you and make sure you are comfortable throughout.
Schedule an appointment with us online or call Excel Dental today at (734) 929-9999.