Healthy teeth are a dream for many, but keeping teeth strong and shiny takes good eating and cleaning habits. Sometimes, even the most healthy-looking teeth get infections.

Root canal infection is one such infection that can happen without any visible symptoms or signs, and only regular dental checkups can determine the risk. Let us discuss what is root canal infection treatment, its symptoms, and more.

What is it? 

Root canal infection is a pretty common thing. Our teeth are not as hard as they look. In fact, the hard space only lies outside, and the whole tooth is made up of different layers. The first and hardest layer is called enamel. The second sponge-like layer is called dentin, and the last layer is a collection of soft tissue that is called pulp.

The innermost layer, pulp, has nerve and blood vessels that help the teeth grow and stay healthy. A root canal infection happens when the pulp of the teeth gets infected by injuries or tooth decay. However, it is very common and gets treated easily.

Symptoms of a root canal infection:

• Tooth pain every now and then.
• Feeling sensitivity in teeth when eating hot or cold.
• Swelling in gums and jaw area.
• Chipping and cracking of the tooth.
• Discolored and dark teeth.

Let us have a look at the possible causes of the infection: 

An infection in the tooth pulp may occur due to several reasons. Let us discuss some of the main ones:

The first reason for a tooth canal infection can be a fracture in the tooth due to an accident.

Secondly and damage to the tooth pulp, with or without the damage to the exterior, can be a reason for root canal infection.

In case you have tooth decay or a habit of undergoing multiple and repeated dental procedures, your chances of catching the root canal are wider.

What happens during a root canal treatment? 

During root canal infection treatment, the dentist treats the infected pulp and removes it if required.

1 The procedure starts with taking an X-Ray of the teeth. The doctor reviews the X-ray and looks for infected or dead tissue, and decides on the treatment as per the tooth’s condition.

2 Second step includes numbing down the area around the infected tooth using anesthesia.

3 Next, a protective barrier is placed around the tooth to protect the gums and the neighboring teeth.

4 Dentist drills the teeth and reaches the innermost layer, that is, pulp.

5 The next step includes the cleaning and removal of the infected area. The doctor dries out the area and fills up the space with filling material.

6 In case the damage to the tooth is high, the dentist may remove the outer part of the tooth and put a permanent crown over it.

Why taking the treatment is necessary?

If you wish your root canal infection will go away itself, you are very wrong. You are just delaying your treatment and making it even worse and more costly. If you keep delaying your root canal infection treatment, the infection keeps on spreading and keeps damaging the healthy tooth structure. In such a situation, the only treatment left to treat your pain and save your neighboring teeth is tooth extraction.

If you don’t pay attention to your tooth, even at this stage, you might end up having bite irregularities or bone loss.

When do you need a return trip to the dentist?

Pain:

If you are feeling pain or discomfort in your gums and teeth after the root canal infection treatment and start to have unbearable pain while eating or exposing teeth to hot and cold, this is an emergency alarm, and you need to visit your doctor again.

Swelling: 

The next indication that your infection needs retreatment is swelling in the gums, jaw, and neck. If such situation arises, do not take it lightly.

Pus: 

Yellow or white pus discharge is an indication of something really fishy. Reach out to your dental care provider immediately in such a situation.

Bad breath:

If you are feeling a bad taste and bad breath in your mouth, it is not a positive sign, and you need to contact your doctor.

 How to take care after the treatment 

Maintain hygiene: Make a habit of brushing and flossing your teeth daily.

Use mouthwash: Brushing is not enough. Use mouthwash to have a fresh breath and kill bacteria. Please note that for a few initial days after root canal infection treatment, you need to use some mild antiseptic mouthwash.

Take your course of antibiotics and painkillers: If your doctor has prescribed you any antibiotics and medicine to reduce pain and inflammation, you need to take it timely.

Get crown on your teeth:  After having root canal infection treatment getting a crown on the repaired and treated teeth is the best idea. This will save your tooth from further damage and keep it functional in the future.

Takeaway:

Root canal infections are common and occur to anyone. Therefore, getting regular dental checkups is necessary to ensure the health of our teeth and smile. If you suspect you may have a root canal infection, see your dentist immediately.

If you live in US or Mexico and looking for root canal infection treatment near Your Location, Pure Smile Makeover Center is there for you. They provide all types of general dental procedures and advanced procedures like dental veneers, crowns, and implants at affordable prices. To know more about their dental services, Visit their website now!

Frequently asked questions:

Question: What is a root canal infection?

Answer: A root canal infection occurs when the pulp of a tooth, which contains nerves and blood vessels, gets infected due to injuries or tooth decay. It may lead to symptoms such as tooth pain, sensitivity, swelling, and discoloration. Regular dental checkups are crucial to detect and treat the infection.

Question 1 How to know you have a root canal infection? 

Answer: The symptoms of a root canal infection may include tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling in the gums and jaw area, chipping or cracking of the tooth, and a discolored or darkened tooth. However, some cases may have no visible symptoms, and regular dental checkups are essential to detect the infection.

Question: Why is it necessary to get root canal infection treatment?

Answer: Delaying root canal infection treatment can lead to the spread of the infection, damage to healthy tooth structure, and potential tooth extraction. Prompt treatment is essential to save the tooth, prevent further complications, and maintain oral health.

Get Your Healthy Smile Back! Schedule Your Root Canal Treatment Today!