Perhaps one of the most dreaded terms for dental patients is “root canal.” While in the past the term might conjure up unpleasant thoughts of drills and pain, that’s no longer the case.
Thanks to newer technologies and treatments, root canal treatment can be relatively painless. So if you live in Phoenix and think you might be in need of root canal treatment, there’s no reason to hesitate.
Let’s start by breaking down what a root canal treatment consists of. Simply put, root canal therapy is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that has become decayed or infected.
When the tooth “pulp,” the part composed of nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or damaged it can cause you pain. During a root canal treatment, the dentist removes the pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent future damage. Our Phoenix-area root canal treatment team will make sure you’re in great hands.
So how do you know if you need a root canal?
The most obvious sign that you should be looking for a root canal doctor in Phoenix is if you’re experiencing tooth and/or gum pain. While not all pain indicates root damage, an infected tooth will typically cause discomfort. This pain may feel more intense when chewing, brushing your teeth, or applying pressure to the area.
Along with pain in the tooth and gums, you might also experience swelling or inflammation. These symptoms may extend from the gumline to your face and even your neck. This is a sign something is wrong and such symptoms should not be ignored.
A common tooth ailment is sensitivity, especially when it comes to hot or cold foods. While tooth sensitivity is normal even in healthy teeth, there are some cases that can indicate a real problem.
If your tooth sensitivity gradually increases with time, something is wrong. You may notice the sensitivity morphing into sharp, acute pain. This is certainly a cause for alarm. Additionally, tooth sensitivity shouldn’t last for weeks or months without improving. If it does, it can be indicative of a nerve infection.
Another obvious sign of tooth decay is discoloration. Some discoloration is normal as teeth develop stains over time. However, if a specific tooth begins to darken or you notice a dark spot that seems to be growing, don’t hesitate to find a dentist.
Many things can lead to a tooth root becoming damaged or diseased. A cavity in the tooth, a fracture or crack, or an oral injury can all lead to root damage. In any of these cases, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
Keep in mind that if a tooth root becomes damaged and is left untreated, it can lead to more severe complications, such as an infection in the jawbone or an abscess. Tooth abscesses are not only very painful but can cause serious and permanent damage to your bone and gums. A routine root canal is much simpler than one with complications caused by delays.
If you’ve experienced any of the above symptoms, make the smart choice and come in for an exam at our Phoenix dental office as soon as possible. Book an appointment today!