Can a Root Canal Procedure Save My Tooth?

A root canal is performed when the pulp of your tooth becomes infected or inflamed. This can happen due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on the same tooth, or even trauma to the tooth. The purpose of a root canal is to save your natural tooth from extraction by removing this infected or damaged pulp.

Signs That You May Need a Root Canal

Do you experience persistent tooth pain or sensitivity? Are your gums tender and swollen? These could be signs that you may need a root canal procedure. It's important to recognize these symptoms early on in order to save your tooth from further damage.

• One of the most common indicators is severe, continuous toothache. If you find yourself experiencing intense pain even when doing everyday activities like eating or drinking, it might be time to consider a root canal. Additionally, prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures can also be a sign that the nerve inside your tooth is damaged.
• Another telltale sign is gum tenderness and swelling around the affected tooth. This inflammation occurs as a result of infection spreading from the pulp of the tooth into the surrounding tissues. You may also notice small bumps called abscesses forming near the gumline, which can cause discomfort and pus accumulation.
• Sometimes, changes in how your teeth look can indicate potential issues as well. Discoloration of a single tooth could mean that its nerve has died or become infected. In some cases, there may not be any noticeable symptoms at all until an X-ray reveals deep decay or infection within the roots.

If you're experiencing any combination of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a dentist who can evaluate whether a root canal is necessary for saving your tooth. Early detection and treatment are key in preventing further complications such as dental abscesses or even tooth loss.

The Root Canal Procedure: Step-by-Step Process

The root canal procedure is a common dental treatment that can save your tooth from extraction. It involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from the inside of your tooth and sealing it to prevent further infection.

• First, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the affected tooth. This ensures that you won't feel any pain during the procedure. Once you're numb, they will place a rubber dam around the tooth to keep it clean and dry throughout the process.
• Next, they will create an access point in your tooth by drilling a small hole through its crown. Through this opening, they can reach down into the root canal system. Using specialized tools, such as files and irrigating solutions, they will carefully remove all infected or diseased pulp from within.
• After cleaning out all debris and bacteria from your root canal system, your dentist may apply medication to ensure complete sterilization. They may also shape and enlarge the canals using files to facilitate better filling later on.
• Once everything is cleaned thoroughly, it's time for filling and sealing. Your dentist will use a rubber-like material called gutta-percha along with adhesive cement to fill up each cleaned canal space effectively. This prevents future reinfection by sealing off any potential entry points for bacteria.
• If necessary, your dentist may recommend placing a dental crown over your treated tooth for added protection and strength since teeth that have undergone root canal treatments are more prone to fracture due to their weakened structure.

If you ever have any questions or concerns, visit Stone Dental Group-SE Chicago Dentistry at 2845 N Sheridan Rd #914, Chicago, IL 60657, or call (773) 880-5080.