When a tooth has interior decay, infection or damage, it can be at risk for loss. Often the only option to save a diseased tooth is the
general dentistry treatment known as root canal therapy. By removing the diseased portion of pulp from inside the root canals, further damage to the tooth can be stopped. This is along with any pain that has been caused by the infection. At Curtis Family Dentistry, we can help save infected teeth and relieve severe tooth pain with root canal therapy at our clinic in Mooresville.
Root canals are performed by opening the cusp or top of the tooth and cleaning out the tooth root chambers, or canals, of diseased material. This includes the pulp and nerves, removing the source of pain for the tooth. Once all the infected tooth material is gone, the canal is disinfected to kill infection and packed with a sterilized dental substance. The cusp is sealed, and in most cases, a dental crown is fitted for the tooth to protect the weakened structure.
Root Canals Offer Pain Relief for Infected Teeth!
Most people with an infected tooth that needs a root canal come to us because they are in pain. The infection can cause inflammation or an abscess that can put pressure on the nerve root, causing severe pain. Root canal therapy can usually be performed in one visit to remove the infected material. It may be necessary to have follow up appointments to inspect the tooth and add a permanent crown. The procedure is often no more uncomfortable than receiving fillings or other tooth repairs. It can stop the severe pain and allow the tooth to heal.
Are root canals painful?
Root canals have a bad reputation for being very painful procedures because they used to be much more painful than they are now, but thanks to advancements in dentistry and modern medicine, your root canal appointment should not be painful at all. In fact, the pain that you experience from not receiving a root canal is likely far greater than any pain you will experience during and after your treatment. Our team will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure that you have a quick and painless recovery as well.
Do I need a dental crown after a root canal?
Once the infected tooth pulp has been removed, a dental crown or other restoration almost always has to be placed over the tooth. Dental crowns offer extra support for teeth that have become weak due to tooth decay and damage. They also protect these teeth from future infections and other issues and restore the appearance of the tooth. Dental crowns won’t protect the teeth from everything, however, so it’s important to still visit our office for routine appointments and practice good oral hygiene at home.
What happens if I don’t get a root canal?
If an infected tooth is not treated, the infection can spread to the face, neck, and other parts of the body and cause serious, sometimes fatal consequences. If you are experiencing severe tooth pain that suddenly goes away, that does not mean that the infection has gone away; that usually means that the tooth has died, but the infection is still there. If you put off a root canal for too long, you may have to get a dental extraction instead, which is much more invasive. We always recommend contacting our office as soon as possible for treatment.
If you have severe tooth pain, you may have a damaged or infected tooth that needs a root canal. Protect your smile, and get relief from your dental pain by
contacting Curtis Family Dentistry today. We accept many different insurance plans and offer a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere to repair your painful tooth.