Preserve Damaged Teeth and Find Pain Relief with Root Canal Therapy
Has your dentist recommended a root canal? While many people think a root canal diagnosis is bad news, it’s actually a good sign. Root canal treatment (RCT) saves badly damaged or infected teeth from extraction, and most people experience little discomfort during the procedure. Do you need a root canal in Windsor Mill, Maryland? Schedule an appointment with Edmondson Family Dental Care for advanced root canals. Dr. Jon Edmondson is well-versed in root canals, so you can expect comfort and high success even in complex cases.
When do I need a root canal?
You need a root canal when you have a deep cavity, crack, or faulty dental work, which allows harmful bacteria to infiltrate the pulp chamber. A root canal removes the deep infection and restores your tooth to relieve pain and rebuild its function.
So, how do I know I need a root canal?
Only a dentist can determine the need for endodontic therapy, but the following signs may also signal the need for one.
- Piercing pain, especially when biting into something
- Increased sensitivity to cold or hot stimuli
- Visible tooth damage (cracks or cavities)
- A discolored tooth (an infected tooth becomes dark or gray as the pulp chamber dies off)
- Swollen gums or face
- Pimple-like swelling near the afflicted tooth
Sometimes, a root canal may be necessary even if you don’t experience the typical symptoms of tooth infection. This happens when an infection remains undetected due to the death of the tooth’s nerve (dental necrosis or non-vital tooth). While the nerve is no longer functional, infection can still build up within the root canal, leading to an abscess or bone loss. We detect these asymptomatic infections during routine X-rays or exams. Addressing the issue with a root canal prevents potential complications, such as tooth loss or systemic infections.
What does a root canal involve?
Do you need a root canal? Don’t fret. Rest assured, your treatment will not be more painful than treating a cavity. The dentist begins the procedure by numbing your gums with highly potent dental anesthetics. The anesthetics remain effective throughout the treatment and can be adjusted to your comfort level. You won’t feel pain during treatment, only slight pressure as we work on your tooth.
Once you are comfortable, the dentist will isolate the infected tooth with a rubber dam to keep it contamination-free. Then, we’ll make a tiny hole in your crown, which the dentist will use to remove the infected tissues. After removing the infected tissues, we’ll thoroughly clean and sanitize your pulp chamber and root canals until all the infection is gone.
Next, the dentist will fill the “hollowed” tooth with gutta-percha, a rubber-like material. This biocompatible material acts as a pulp and seals your tooth against future bacterial infiltrations. The dentist will temporarily restore your tooth with a dental filling as you wait for a permanent dental crown. Your treated tooth looks aesthetically appealing and functions optimally without pain. Indeed, a root canal saves your tooth and smile!
Do you need a root canal?
Do you have a sensitive or painful tooth? It’s time to talk to Edmondson Family Dental Care to determine the need for a root canal. Call (410) 220-5309 to reserve a consultation with Dr. Edmondson. Remember, the earlier you seek root canal treatment, the better the chances of saving your tooth!