Determining if you need a root canal can be challenging, especially in the early stages, so routine exams are essential. During these checkups, your dentist can identify potential issues and provide timely treatment before the problem progresses.
Root canals are often considered painful, but that couldn’t be more false. Root canal therapy relieves pain and discomfort from a tooth infection or deep decay. Dr. Taejoon Park at Dental Park in Dedham, MA, provides gentle root canal therapy to treat and restore your smile to its former glory.
What Is Root Canal Therapy?
Root canal therapy removes damaged, diseased, or infected tooth pulp from a decayed or damaged tooth. The tooth pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and other vital tissues that keep the tooth alive and functional.
Only your dentist can treat this issue, and the procedure is pretty simple and straightforward. Before performing the treatment, we numb the area, so you don’t experience discomfort, then we gently remove the infected material and clean the tooth.
Next, we fill the tooth with a flexible, rubber-like substance called gutta-percha and seal the tooth with a dental crown. Depending on the infection, root canal therapy can take 30 minutes to one hour.
Signs and Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection
If you have any of the following signs or symptoms, you might need root canal therapy:
- Painful biting and chewing
- Bumps on the gums
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen or tender gums
- Deep decay
- Darkening of the gums
- Tenderness and swelling of gum tissue
- Foul odor in the mouth
What Causes a Root Canal Infection?
Here are some common reasons why a tooth gets inflamed or infected:
- Severe decay on the tooth
- Deep crack or chip in the tooth
- An improperly placed or weakened dental crown
- Having too many procedures on a tooth
A root canal can remove the infection and restore the tooth’s function and health. Although some people would prefer to have a tooth pulled instead of getting a root canal, keeping your natural tooth as long as possible is always recommended. A root canal can mean the difference between losing and saving a tooth!
Don’t Panic, and Get Pain-Free Treatment Today!
If you suspect you need root canal therapy, there is no need to worry or panic. Root canal therapy is common and stress-free, especially with Dr. Park on your side. Dr. Park and our team will ensure your experience is as relaxing and pleasant as possible.
Please give us a call today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Park so you can review your options.