Iroquois Dental Center

What Is A Root Canal?

What Is A Root Canal?

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

Remember when root canal procedures were a big deal long back? Today, they’re as common as getting a cavity filled. With over 15 million root canal treatments performed annually, you aren’t alone if your dentist suggests one. Modern equipment has made the process smoother, imaging methods have greatly improved, and anesthetics are administered so skillfully that even the initial injection is almost painless. But exactly what is a root canal treatment, and how can you know if it’s right for you? Let’s dive in and explore.

What Is A Root Canal?

A root canal treatment (RCT) is a type of endodontic therapy, where endo means inside and odont means tooth in Greek. This dental procedure is designed to treat infection or damage within a tooth’s pulp (the innermost soft tissue). This pulp contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue, which can become infected or inflamed for various reasons. A dentist specialized in treating the inside of the tooth addresses the infected canal to protect it from further damage. Trauma, bacterial infections, repeated dental procedures, or deep decay are situations where you might need a root canal treatment.

Signs You Need a Root Canal

Root canals are valuable procedures that can save a tooth from extraction, relieve pain, and preserve your natural smile. Here are seven signs you might need an RCT to keep your oral health in top shape:

1.      Severe Pain

The first telltale sign you might have a diseased tooth needing a root canal is experiencing a spontaneous, wave-like pain. If lying, bending down, or other particular positions cause pressure on your tooth and face, it could indicate root canal pain.

2.      Bumps on the Gums

Are you noticing bumps on your gums? It can be an alarming situation. Often, these pimple-like bumps, known as fistulas, can signify an infected tooth that requires a root canal.

3.      Darkening Of the Gums

The darkening or discoloration of gums can indicate a deep decay. If an infection is present and the tooth is deteriorating, the gums may start to decay, signaling the potential need for a root canal.

4.      Prolonged Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

While temperature sensitivity can occur without the need for a root canal, those who require the procedure often experience prolonged pain and sensitivity long after consuming hot or cold food and beverages.

5.      Swelling and Tenderness in the Gums

Swollen gums can be a clear sign of an infected tooth. While gums might become inflamed after aggressive brushing or flossing, persistent swelling, tenderness, and pain upon touching are more concerning. It’s crucial to inform your dentist about gum swelling or tenderness during your visit.

6.      Chipped or Cracked Tooth

A chipped or cracked tooth can be a significant indicator of a tooth requiring a root canal. The damage could result from trauma, leading to inflamed or infected pulp. Alternatively, the tooth might be so decayed or infected that it becomes brittle, leading to cracks or chips. A root canal might be necessary to salvage the remaining tooth in such cases.

7.      An Abscess

An abscess is a severe infection that can be identified on an X-ray as a dark spot, showing a void in the jawbone where bone cannot grow due to the infection. During regular dental check-ups and x-rays, your dentist should inform you if an abscess is detected in your tooth.

However, it is essential to note that sometimes there are no symptoms. Regular dental check-ups can help catch and address issues early.

What to Expect During Your Dentist Visit?

In the past, teeth with diseased nerves were often extracted. Today, these can be saved through root canal procedures. For most patients, this treatment is straightforward and involves minimal discomfort.

As mentioned before, each tooth contains a dental pulp, supplying it with nerves, nutrients, connective tissue, and blood vessels. This pulp extends down into the tooth’s root. When this pulp becomes diseased, it dies, depriving the tooth of essential nutrients and nerve signals. If untreated, the tooth can become infected and may require extraction.

A root canal procedure enables your chosen dentist to remove the diseased pulp, clean the canal, and seal the tooth, preserving its health and function. The process begins with making an opening through the tooth’s crown to access the pulp chamber. The dentist seals the chamber after removing the infected pulp and cleaning the canal. Initially, a temporary filling is placed, which is later replaced by a permanent filling or crown, depending on the tooth’s position in the mouth.

Reach Out To Iroquois Dental for Better Assistance

If you suspect any uncomfortable dental issues, we are here to help. Our team has performed numerous RCTs, and we make sure it isn’t a scary experience for our patients. Although the process may seem a little overwhelming, the truth is that a damaged tooth may hurt a lot more.

Our team is dedicated to guiding you every step of the way. Call us at 630-416-0780 to learn more about the treatment and whether or not this option is right for your needs. Dr. Deepak Agarwal at Iroquois Dental totally has your back!

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