When a tooth develops an infection or abscess, then serious complications may arise, including tooth loss. In order to stop an infection and preserve your smile, we may recommend endodontic treatment. More commonly known as root canal therapy, this treatment helps stop the progression of infection and treats the tooth. How does a root canal stop infection and when should Astoria, NY, patients receive them?
What Causes an Infected Tooth?
The pulp acts as a tooth’s nerve center, keeping it alive and healthy, overseeing the flow of blood and nutrients to and from the tooth. Our pulp sits at the center of the tooth. So, when an injury or untreated tooth decay allows bacteria to reach the pulp, a tooth may become infected. Patients then experience pain when they eat or bite down, as well as persistent aches. Swelling near the tooth or a discharge from the tooth could occur too. Headaches and fever also accompany infected teeth. If one or more of these warning signs sounds familiar to you, then please let your dentist known as soon as possible!
The Dangers of An Infected Tooth
Without treatment, the infection will grow more severe. The issue could cause your pulp to die, effectively killing your tooth and increasing the risk of infection spreading to surrounding teeth. Don’t ignore persistent pain, let your dentist know! We can repair your tooth and safeguard your smile’s overall health. In addition, remember that by attending your routine six-month checkups, you give us a chance to monitor your smile and catch these issues in the early stages, often before you even notice discomfort.
Saving Your Tooth With a Root Canal
How does a root canal save an infected tooth? Well, we begin by administering anesthesia to ensure you feel comfortable throughout the procedure. Next, we open the tooth and remove the infected tissue. We will clean the interior of the tooth and the root canals. We add a restorative material, known as gutta percha, to the tooth. After the material cures, we then cap the tooth with a custom-made dental crown. A crown not only looks natural, but provides durable and long-lasting restoration, protecting your tooth from further decay and damage. If you have any questions about this endodontic procedure, or if you experience pain in your tooth, then please let us know. We want to make sure you continue to enjoy a healthy (and whole) smile!
Do You Need a Root Canal?
If you have an infected tooth, then we have a safe and comfortable solution. For more information on our dental restorations, schedule a consultation with us by calling Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
