When a tooth’s nerve and pulp (mass of connective tissues within the center of the tooth) are inflamed, irritated, and infected due to deep decay, repeated procedures, tooth crack, or face injury. This deep cavity needs treatment and removing all the debris from the tooth deep down. This is a serious concern; if patients do not pay heed to their dental problems, it can create severe long-term effects. The bacteria can spread through the bloodstream to the rest of the body, posing an extreme risk of other systemic conditions. Root canal is a grave concern and must not be taken lightly by anyone. Undeniably, it is a severe problem, but endodontists and dentists continue to perform around 15 million root canals annually in the US.
Patients must be mindful of the signs or symptoms and care for their dental health. Sometimes, infected teeth may have no symptoms; your regular dental appointments can help detect early problems. Some of the symptoms include
- Consistent tooth pain: If you experience pain deep within the tooth that spreads to your jaw, face, or other teeth and does not go away.
- Swollen gums: If your tooth is infected, it will have a swollen gum.
- Swollen jaw: The jaw can swell from accumulated pus in the tooth.
- Loose tooth: Pus can soften tooth bones.
- Discolored tooth: The pulp affects the blood flow in the area, turning the tooth dark.
Root Canal Treatment
We thoroughly focus on providing patient-centered care while considering their best interests. Thoroughly examine the patient’s tooth for swelling and other signs and then perform X-rays. During the procedure, the patient is given anesthesia to numb the tooth or even medications, depending on the anxiety level of the patient. Then, a rubberlike sheet is placed in the mouth around the tooth to protect it from saliva and keep it clean. Then, the top of the affected tooth is drilled, exposing it to the pulp, damaged nerve, and blood vessels. Then, fluid is put in canals to kill bacteria. Then, the pulp is removed from the inside of the tooth and root. The affected tooth is thoroughly cleaned with solutions, especially the center, to remove the pulp from the surroundings altogether. Then, with the help of small, precise instruments, the canals are shaped and thoroughly cleaned for the new filling. The new temporary or permanent filling is done depending on the patient’s case and sealed.
If you experience any symptoms, do not sit over them to worsen your situation. Root canal treatment is safe and is way better for the patient when not in severe pain. However, our patient-centered care is focused on their overall well-being. We provide the most suitable treatment for our patients that helps them get back to their daily schedule. So, take the first step and schedule an appointment with Foothill Dental Care at (925) 961-5484 today.