Consider Root Canal Treatment With Our Trusted Dentist
A root canal is often the last line of defense in saving a severely infected or damaged tooth. An abscessed tooth, which results from an infection in or around the tooth’s root leading to a pocket of pus, often necessitates root canal treatment to prevent the infection from spreading. While many people may fear the procedure due to common myths or lack of understanding, root canal therapy is a routine dental treatment that can save your tooth and eliminate pain. At East Credit Dental, Dr. Inigo provides comprehensive root canal therapy with the goal of preserving your natural smile and improving your overall oral health.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed below or suspect you may need a root canal, don’t hesitate to contact our Mississauga dental office to schedule a consultation. Call us today at (905) 567-1132.
What Is a Root Canal?
What Is a Root Canal?A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage deep inside a tooth, specifically in the pulp (the soft tissue at the center of the tooth). A periapical tooth abscess, an infection at the tip of the root caused by bacteria invading the dental pulp, often necessitates a root canal treatment. When the pulp becomes infected due to decay, trauma, or injury, a root canal is performed to remove the infected tissue and prevent further damage. In addition, if a dentist notices a dental abscess or many abscessed teeth due to tooth decay, they will recommend treatment immediately.
During the procedure, the dentist or endodontist cleans out the infected pulp, disinfects the area, and then seals the tooth to prevent new infections. While the thought of a root canal can be intimidating, it is a highly effective treatment that can save a tooth from extraction, relieve pain, and restore the tooth’s function.
Our Mississauga dentist, Dr. Inigo is here to answer any of your questions about root canal therapy. His experienced dental team also works hard to create a calming environment at their dental practice, ensuring you feel that your dental needs are met.
Understanding Dental Abscesses
A dental abscess is a serious condition that requires prompt attention. Essentially, it is a pocket of pus that forms due to a bacterial infection in the teeth, gums, or the bone that holds the teeth in place. This infection can cause severe pain, swelling, and even difficulty in chewing or swallowing. Dental abscesses can occur in different areas near the tooth, including the tip of the root (known as a periapical abscess) or the gums at the side of a tooth root (referred to as a periodontal abscess).
What Is a Dental Abscess?
A dental abscess is a painful, pus-filled pocket that forms in the teeth, gums, or bone due to a bacterial infection. This condition can cause significant discomfort and can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly. Dental abscesses can occur in various locations around the tooth. A periapical abscess typically forms at the tip of the tooth root, often due to an untreated dental cavity, injury, or previous dental work. On the other hand, a periodontal abscess occurs in the gums at the side of a tooth root. Both types of abscesses require immediate dental treatment to prevent the infection from spreading and causing more serious health issues.
Common Signs That You Might Need Root Canal Therapy
Persistent Tooth Pain
One of the most common signs that you may need a root canal is persistent tooth pain. If you experience continuous pain that doesn’t go away, especially while chewing or touching the tooth, this is often a sign of nerve damage inside the tooth. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, throbbing pain that worsens over time.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
While sensitivity to hot and cold is not uncommon, it can indicate a more serious issue if the sensitivity lasts for an extended period. If the tooth hurts when exposed to cold or hot foods and drinks, and the pain lingers even after the stimulus is removed, this may be a sign that the pulp (nerve) inside the tooth is infected or damaged.
Swollen or Tender Gums
Swelling around the affected tooth, along with tenderness or redness, can be a sign that infection has reached the root. The infection may also cause the formation of an abscess, a pus-filled pocket that appears as a bump on the gums. This can be painful and should be addressed immediately.
Darkening or Discoloration of the Tooth Due to Tooth Decay
If your tooth becomes discolored, turning a dark brown or black, it could mean that the nerve inside the tooth is dying or has already died. A tooth’s appearance can change when there’s an infection or inflammation deep within the tooth pulp.
A Tooth That’s Loose or Shifting
In some cases, a tooth that has sustained severe damage or infection may begin to loosen. This could be due to the infection spreading to the ligaments and bone surrounding the tooth. Loose teeth or changes in the alignment of your teeth may require a root canal to restore health to the area.
Pimple-like Bumps on the Gums Indicating an Abscessed Tooth
A pimple-like bump near the infected tooth on your gums is a sign of an abscess, which is a pus-filled pocket caused by infection. The abscess can cause pain and swelling and may emit an unpleasant taste or odor if it drains. This condition often requires root canal therapy to prevent the infection from spreading.
What Causes Tooth Abscesses?
Tooth abscesses are primarily caused by a bacterial infection that invades the dental pulp, leading to infection and inflammation at the tip of the root. The dental pulp is the innermost part of the tooth, containing blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Bacteria can enter the tooth through a dental cavity, a chip or crack in the tooth, or even through prior dental work. Once the bacteria reach the pulp, they can spread down to the root, causing a painful abscess.
Risk Factors for Dental Problems
Several factors can increase your risk of developing a tooth abscess. Poor oral hygiene and infrequent dental check-ups are significant risk factors, as they can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, which are common precursors to abscesses. A weakened immune system, whether due to medical conditions or medications, can also make you more susceptible to infections, including dental abscesses.
Additionally, a history of dental problems, such as previous tooth decay or gum disease, can increase your risk. Lifestyle factors like smoking and conditions such as diabetes can further elevate the likelihood of developing a tooth abscess.
By understanding these causes and risk factors, you can take proactive steps to maintain your oral health and reduce the risk of developing a painful and potentially serious dental abscess.
What to Expect During Root Canal Therapy
At East Credit Dental, Dr. Inigo uses modern techniques and equipment to ensure that your root canal procedure is as comfortable and efficient as possible. The procedure generally involves:
- Numbing the Area: Local anesthesia is used to numb the affected area and ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Cleaning the Infection: Dr. Inigo will remove the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth.
- Sealing the Tooth: Once the infection is cleared, the tooth is cleaned and sealed to prevent future infection.
- Restoring the Tooth: In many cases, a dental crown is placed over the tooth to restore its shape and function, allowing it to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Signs of a Root Canal Bacterial Infection
Ignoring the symptoms of an infection inside a tooth can lead to serious complications, including the spread of the infection to other areas of your mouth, jawbone, and even into the bloodstream. It can also result in tooth loss. Seeking treatment early is crucial to preserve your natural teeth and prevent the need for extraction.
Root canal therapy has a very high success rate, and many people find that the procedure relieves their pain and allows them to keep their tooth for many years. Dr. Inigo and the team at East Credit Dental are here to ensure that you receive the care you need to maintain your oral health.
Schedule a Consultation at East Credit Dental Today!
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s important to seek treatment right away. Root canal therapy is a safe and effective way to preserve your natural tooth and alleviate pain. Don’t let a potential infection affect your smile and overall health.
For more information about root canal therapy or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Inigo, call our Mississauga dental practice at (905) 567-1132. We look forward to helping you maintain your healthy, beautiful smile.
