Do you experience any of these symptoms: persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, pain when chewing or touching the tooth, swollen or tender gums, a pimple on your gums, a swollen jaw, a discolored tooth, or a loose tooth?
Causes: You might need a root canal if bacteria invade the pulp inside your tooth, causing inflammation or infection. This can happen due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, large fillings, cracks, or trauma to the face.
Procedure by Our Dentist: Our dentist will perform the root canal procedure in a few steps. First, we take an X-ray to examine the shape of the root canals and check for signs of infection in the surrounding bone. We then numb the area with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Next, we remove the infected pulp from inside the tooth, clean and disinfect the root canals, and then fill and seal them. Finally, we place a crown or filling on the tooth to restore its function and appearance.
Duration of Procedure: The root canal procedure typically takes one to two hours, depending on the case’s complexity. In some instances, more than one visit may be needed to complete the treatment.
Recovery Time: You can expect a quick recovery from a root canal procedure. You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days, which you can manage with over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final restoration is in place and the tenderness has subsided.
Benefits: Root canal treatment offers several benefits, including relieving pain, eliminating infection, and saving your natural tooth. By preserving your tooth, you maintain proper chewing function, natural appearance, and teeth alignment. Root canals also prevent the need for more extensive dental procedures in the future.
How to Avoid Needing a Root Canal: To minimize the need for root canal treatment, practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Avoid chewing on hard objects, such as ice or pens, and wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night. Addressing dental issues promptly can prevent the need for more extensive treatments like root canals.
By following these guidelines and seeking timely dental care, you can maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If you think you might need a root canal or have any concerns about your dental health, don’t hesitate to contact our office at 978-694-9300 for a consultation.
A crown is a tooth shaped cap that covers the natural tooth in order to strengthen it so that the tooth does not fracture, or make the tooth more cosmetically pleasing. This is commonly done when the tooth has been weakened due to root canal treatment, tooth fracture, when there is not enough healthy tooth structure to hold in a larger filling, or to cover staining. Crown materials include gold, ceramics, porcelain, or a combination of metal and porcelain. The office may use an outside dental lab in fabricating the crown restoration.