Deep tooth decay and dental infection could be due to a number of factors, and could also be a source of discomfort. Over time, these disorders could also be linked to tooth loss and worsening complications. In today’s blog, your Astoria, NY, dentist will explain how we use an endodontic treatment known as a root canal to treat dental cavities.
The Dangers of Deep Decay and Dental Infection
When a cavity forms, it will continue to grow and spread through your tooth, until the bacteria make contact with the pulp. In addition, an injury that cracks or breaks a tooth could expose the inner pulp too. Your pulp is a group of living tissues that reside in the center of your tooth, and is necessary to keep the tooth functional and healthy. An infection, which forms when bacteria reach the pulp, could cause serious discomfort and over time, destroys the pulp and effectively kills the tooth. At this stage, extraction may be necessary to safeguard the surrounding teeth from infection. To avoid discomfort and tooth loss, you should let us know if you have prolonged tooth sensitivity, toothaches, or pain when biting down or chewing. Other symptoms include a discharge from the tooth, or swelling near it.
Ensuring Your Comfort
We start the root canal procedure by examining your smile using digital imaging technology and x-rays, so we can identify the presence of your infection and plan the treatment with accuracy. Next, we want to make sure you feel comfortable. Along with a local anesthetic at the site near the tooth, we could also discuss sedation to help you enter a calm and relaxed state. Once you’re comfortable, the tooth will be opened so our team can access and remove the tissues within. The interior of the tooth and the exposed root canals will need to be cleaned thoroughly. A special restorative filling is added, and the tooth is finally capped with a crown to protect the remaining structure and ensure a lifelike appearance.
Preventive Actions
To help lower the risk of a future infected tooth, be sure you brush and floss daily, wear mouthguards when playing sports or martial arts, and of course, see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning visit. With preventive care at home and in our office, your smile can remain strong and free of decay or infection. If you have any questions or would like to set up a visit, then please contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Endodontic Treatment?
Our team wants to help offer care that is comfortable, safe, and effective. To learn more about putting a stop to a painful dental infection, then schedule a consultation by calling Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
