Have you ever developed a dental infection? If so, you know how uncomfortable the experience can be and that serious complications can develop. In fact, without treatment you run the risk of losing the tooth completely. How do you treat a dental infection? With a comfortable, safe root canal procedure we can return your tooth to optimal health and function.
Frequently Asked Questions About Treating Dental Infection
Question: What causes a tooth to become infected?
Answer: Our teeth are composed of multiple layers, the innermost being a bundle of living tissue known as the pulp. The dental pulp oversees the flow of blood and nutrients to and from the teeth, keeping the tooth alive and healthy. An infection occurs when bacteria comes into contact with the pulp, typically via cavities or injury to the tooth.
Question: What are the most common warning signs?
Answer: Initially, you may notice your teeth feel sensitive or that you have a serious toothache. Later, you may experience pain when biting down or chewing, fever, swelling near the tooth, or even a bad tasting discharge. If you think you recognize one or more of these warning signs, then contact your dentist today.
Question: How does a root canal procedure help?
Answer: A root canal allows the doctor to remove the infected tissue and then cap the tooth with a lifelike crown. The patient doesn’t experience any more discomfort and the infection doesn’t spread to surrounding teeth.
Question: What does the procedure involve?
Answer: The doctor will administer a local anesthetic before opening the tooth and removing the infected tissue. Then, the inside of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before being filled with a restorative material. The final step is the placement of a lifelike dental crown. If you have any questions about root canal treatment, then please contact our office today.
ABOUT YOUR ASTORIA, NY, DENTIST:
Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, a native New Yorker, has welcomed patients and families from in and around Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since opening his dental practice in 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
