Everyone is at risk of developing tooth decay, but if it isn’t treated it can create major problems. Your tooth may be badly infected, and the gum tissue surrounding the tooth can become swollen and inflamed. Without prompt treatment from your dentist in Newport Beach, the infection can quickly spread, resulting in a dental abscess and increasing the risk of tooth extraction. Instead, root canal therapy can eliminate the infection, and will remove decayed areas in your tooth, restoring it to health.
What Are the Signs of Needing a Root Canal?
There are likely to be clear signs that your tooth requires treatment. The most common symptoms include toothache, tender or sore gums, and the tooth might look discolored. Book an examination with your dentist to determine if root canal treatment is required. Sometimes an infected tooth will not cause any symptoms, which is why it is essential to have regular checkups.
Preparing for Root Canal Treatment
Your dentist will carry out a comprehensive examination to determine the cause of your discomfort. They are likely to take x-rays to show the extent of the infection. They may test the tooth through gently tapping it, and comparing these results with the reactions of other healthy teeth.
The Procedure for Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is generally carried out under local anesthetic, and your dentist in Newport Beach will access the infection through the crown of the tooth. They will thoroughly clean out the central part of your tooth, removing all the decayed and infected tissues. Next, the root canals of your tooth will be sealed with a rubberlike material. Your dentist will then permanently seal up the tooth, preventing further infection. A dental crown is used to restore tooth structure lost to decay and ensures you can use the tooth as normal. A root canal procedure shouldn’t be any worse than having an ordinary filling and afterwards you’ll be able to use your tooth normally.
