Do You Need A Root Canal?
- By Shawn Walton
- •
- 14 Jun, 2016
A root canal is generally not on anyone’s list of fun things to do. However, it is an important dental procedure that can help alleviate the pain experienced due to a cracked or injured tooth or one that is badly decayed. Additionally it can protect your teeth from harmful infections that could cause tooth loss as well as other serious health concerns.
You may be asking, “How do I know if I need a root canal?” For most patients, pain is the first symptom that indicates an issue. The intensity of this pain can start out very mild, but can get more severe if the issue is left untreated. Some patients also experience tooth sensitivity to hot/cold food and drinks and can have issues when biting into foods. You might also notice pain and swelling of the gum tissue surrounding the affected area.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to promptly schedule an appointment with your dentist or an exodontist. They will conduct a thorough examination of the problem and take an x-ray to determine if there are any other issues that could be causing your discomfort.
What to expect during a root canal
If your doctor determines there is an issue with the tooth, they may suggest a root canal to alleviate the pain and seal the area from other possible issues, including infection. This procedure is done using a local anesthetic to numb the area. During the treatment, the doctor will remove the pulp from the center of the affected tooth to prevent the development of future infections and relieve the ache that the patient is enduring.
After the area is numbed from the anesthetic, the doctor will use a drill as well as other small tools to clean the pulp from the center of the tooth. When the procedure is completed the dentist will fill the hole with a temporary filling to prevent bacteria from entering. Several days after the procedure they will install a permanent crown over the area to strengthen it and keep it protected from any future issues.
Are you suffering from tooth pain? Contact your dentist or the staff at Walton Dental Health in Sioux City, to diagnose and treat the problem.
A dental checkup every 6 months ensures your teeth are in top shape and there aren't any oral issues developing. In addition to regular checkups, we recommend you practice these easy steps in your dental routine:
- Brush at least 2 times a day, for upwards of 3 minutes.
- Always keep your toothbrush clean and know when it's time to invest in a new toothbrush.
- Floss daily to remove plaque from places your toothbrush can't reach.
- Eat healthy foods packed with calcium, vitamin A and C. Avoid sugary foods and drinks.
- Smoking can cause gum disease, tooth loss and other oral health problems. Avoid cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products.
- Exercise preventative care and schedule regular checkups. For best results, visit a dentist every 6 months, approximately twice a year.