Root Canal Therapy
Jacksonville, FL
 Root canal treatments at Ortega Dental is a less intrusive option than tooth extraction. Despite its negative reputation, it will not be as big of an imposition to have the infected root canal removed rather than having your tooth extracted and replaced with dentures or implants.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal procedure is necessary if you want to save your tooth. The only other option is to have the tooth extracted. The procedure involves removing all infected tissue from inside a tooth before cleaning out any debris that builds up in there over time. Once this has been completed, your dentist will seal off access to the hollow part of the chamber with either cement or crowns depending on what's best for you as an individual patient.
Although many people are anxious about the thought of root canal treatment, there really is no need. It is similar to a filling in terms of discomfort - it just takes longer. This is because all the soft tissue must be removed from the center of the tooth, as well as down each root and root canal.
How Do I Know if I Need a Root Canal?
A tooth can become infected by bacteria if the soft center (pulp chamber) becomes exposed. This happens when damage to the hard shell of the tooth allows bacteria to reach the pulp chamber. Most people experience some degree of pain or discomfort when endodontic treatment is necessary (although some experience no symptoms). The main indications that a root canal may be needed include:
Pain
For some people, the pain of a toothache can be mild and non-existent. For others, it may come in waves or is persistent throughout their mouths with no specific site. This discomfort usually starts off localized to one particular tooth, but then spreads outwards from there. It's possible for your jawline as well as other teeth to feel sore - which isn't uncommon.
Tooth Sensitivity
Anyone who has felt a sharp, stabbing pain when drinking an iced drink may be familiar with tooth sensitivity. The same pain can also occur from something hot, too. Tooth sensitivity is also one of the most common symptoms of an infected root canal that needs intervention by a dentist. People often mistake this sensation for simply having sensitive teeth, but it could actually mean much more if your discomfort persists once you have stopped consuming the hot or cold foodstuffs.
Swollen Gums
If your mouth is in pain, swollen gums may be a sign of tooth decay. Have you noticed that the swelling around the painful area feels tender or might ooze foul-tasting pus when pressure is applied to it?
Discolored Tooth
A tooth can turn gray if an infection in the pulp causes damage to its root. This discoloration may occur as a result of tissue breakdown due to gum disease, among other things.
Preventing a Root Canal
Brushing teeth for two minutes, twice a day, and flossing between the teeth at the beginning and end of every day are some effective ways to prevent problems requiring root canal treatment. There really is no shortcut. In addition, visiting the dentist regularly can help to detect any problems early before they get serious. For further information about root canal treatments, contact Ortega Dental by phoning 904-752-9522. |
