Signs and Symptoms That Indicate the Need for a Root Canal

A root canal treatment is a dental procedure to treat the inside of a tooth when the pulp, which contains the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues, becomes infected or inflamed. A root canal aims to save the tooth and alleviate pain by removing the infected or damaged pulp, disinfecting the root canal system, and filling it with a biocompatible material. At Englewood Dentistry, root canal therapy is an effective treatment that can save a tooth from extraction and relieve pain caused by infection or inflammation. It allows patients to maintain their natural teeth and restores normal biting and chewing functions. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential for the long-term success of a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy. 

Signs and Symptoms That Indicate the Need for a Root Canal 

• A persistent or severe toothache is often the most common symptom of a tooth needing root canal treatment. The pain may be sharp or throbbing and can worsen with biting or applying pressure to the tooth. 
• Teeth that require root canal therapy often exhibit increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. When exposed to hot or cold drinks or foods, the tooth may feel sharp, intense, or lingering pain. 
• Inflammation or infection in the tooth's pulp can lead to swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gum tissue. The area may appear red, swollen, and feel tender to the touch. 
• If the pulp inside the tooth becomes damaged or infected, the affected tooth may darken or develop a grayish hue compared to the surrounding teeth. This discoloration is a result of internal changes within the tooth structure. 

The Root Canal Treatment Procedure 

Once your dentist has determined that you need a root canal and you’ve chosen to have it performed, they will take X-rays of the tooth to provide an accurate picture of the current condition of the root and surrounding bone structure. If decay or disease is discovered within the tooth, the dentist will thoroughly clean the tooth’s surface to remove any signs of infection. Then, the infected pulp will be removed from the tooth, and the root canal system will be cleaned and sterilized. The dentist will then fill the root canal system with gutta-percha or another material and seal off the access hole to prevent further bacteria from entering. Finally, a crown will be placed over the tooth to restore both the appearance and function of the tooth. 

The Benefits of a Root Canal Treatment 

• Eliminating pain 
• Preventing further damage to your teeth or jaw 
• Saving your natural tooth instead of extracting it 
• Maintaining the health of your surrounding teeth 
• Preventing other problems from developing in the future 

Get in touch with Englewood Dentistry at 334 Grand Ave, Englewood, NJ 07631, or call (201) 541-8111 to learn more about root canal treatments and how the procedure works.