When a tooth develops an infection, this could be a source of discomfort and without treatment, you could risk the loss of a tooth. But we want to help you enjoy relief from discomfort and keep your smile whole. In today’s blog, your Astoria, NY, dentist talks about how we treat an infected tooth with a root canal procedure.
The Causes of Tooth Infection
What does it mean for a tooth to become infected? An infection means that harmful oral bacteria have made contact with the pulp, the collection of nerve tissues at the center of your tooth. This exposure could be due to a cracked or broken tooth, or even the result of an untreated cavity that grows in severity until bacteria meets the pulp. Without treatment, the issue will grow in severity until a tooth is lost or requires extraction to protect your smile from the spread of infection.
The Signs to Watch For
When a tooth becomes infected, you may experience tooth sensitivity when you eat or drink, pain when biting down, or a toothache that doesn’t subside after a day or two. You could also develop swelling near the tooth, a discharge from it, and aches in the face and jaw. Don’t ignore these potential warning signs, instead contact our team right away. With digital x-rays, we can make a thorough and accurate diagnosis, identifying the presence and position of an infected tissue. We then plan treatment in detail!
Help with a Root Canal
Our team will numb the tooth and could also discuss sedation to help you enter a deep state of calm and relaxation. Once you are ready, we will open the tooth so we can access and remove all the tissues from within. Next, we clean the interior of the tooth thoroughly and add a special restorative filling known as gutta percha. The final step in your root canal is to cap the tooth with a crown, one custom-made for a lifelike appearance and a balanced bite. Our team can then discuss better oral hygiene habits to lower the risk of future cavities or infections, such as better brushing and flossing and routine visits for cleanings every few months.
If you have any questions about how we stop discomfort and treat your infection with a root canal, or if you have an aching tooth that requires treatment, then contact our team today. There is still time to use your 2024 dental insurance benefits before they expire!
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR TOOTHACHE RELIEF
Our team wants to help you avoid the pain of a toothache and the long-term impacts of an infected tooth. You can schedule an appointment by calling our office in Astoria, NY at 718-728-8320.
