Few dental treatments have a more intimidating reputation than the root canal, which many people assume is a painful, complex ordeal. However, modern root canals offer a quick and virtually painless way to address a tooth infection and keep your natural smile intact.
At LA Dental Town, our team is changing the way patients think about root canals. We specialize in gentle, efficient procedures, ensuring your comfort with options like oral sedation and nitrous oxide.
Don’t let fear or outdated myths hold you back from necessary dental care. In this month’s post, we take a closer look at root canals and the warning signs that you may need one.
This common dental procedure addresses damaged or inflamed tooth pulp — the spongy, nerve-filled tissue found at the center of each tooth, below the dentin and enamel layers. When a deep cavity or crack exposes the pulp, bacteria can invade, triggering painful inflammation within the tooth.
During the procedure, we remove the infected pulp and thoroughly clean out the spaces left behind. We then fill the area with a rubbery dental material to provide stability and seal the tooth to keep out new bacteria.
A successful root canal eliminates pain, preserves the structural integrity of your smile, and prevents the need for more costly, complex dental work. According to research by the American Association of Endodontists, the majority of people who undergo the procedure are glad they chose to save their natural tooth rather than having it extracted.
It’s easy to miss a tooth infection in its initial stages. The damage progresses slowly, and you may dismiss early symptoms as tooth sensitivity or irritation. But the longer you wait to address the issue, the more you risk losing the opportunity to save your tooth.
Keep an eye out for these signs that you may need a root canal:
Deep, throbbing pain is one of the most common signs of a tooth infection. The discomfort may spread into your face or jaw, and it typically intensifies when you chew or apply pressure to the tooth.
While some temperature sensitivity is normal, a healthy tooth should recover almost instantly. If that ache lingers for several minutes or more after consuming hot or cold foods or beverages, it’s a sign of a deeper issue.
Inflammation in your gums could indicate that a tooth infection is beginning to spread to the surrounding tissue. You may notice swelling or tenderness near the affected tooth or a pimple-like, pus-filled boil on the gums.
An untreated infection gradually kills the pulp by cutting off the tooth’s internal blood supply. As the dead tissue breaks down, it stains the tooth from the inside out, causing the enamel to take on a dark or grayish tint.
If you notice any of these symptoms, see the LA Dental Town team as soon as possible. Without prompt treatment, the infection can spread to your jawbone and beyond, potentially resulting in serious systemic issues.
Fortunately, modern root canals are no more painful than getting a filling. While you might experience some mild sensitivity afterward as your mouth heals, any discomfort should be manageable and clear up within a week.
Don’t put your oral health on the back burner — act today to protect your smile. Call or click to schedule an appointment at LA Dental Town in East Los Angeles, California, and receive expert care in a comfortable, relaxed setting.
