Root Canal Treatment

When decay and infection make their way into the inside of your tooth, a root canal is usually the only option to save the tooth. Deep inside your tooth is the pulp that is composed of blood vessels and nerves. As the bacteria finds its way here, you will definitely begin to feel that something is wrong, experiencing one or all of the signs below:

• Toothaches. This could be persistent pain, it may throb at times and then subside, and it may get worse when you are eating or drinking. Note: Not all toothaches mean you need a root canal.
• Cracked or broken teeth. Trauma to a tooth can leave the tooth susceptible to bacteria and infection. It’s a free pass to get to the center of the tooth.
• Sensitivity. Sensitivity that lingers after drinking or eating something cold or hot may indicate trouble.
• Swelling. Swelling of the gums, jaw area, and face can indicate the infection is present. And, while it doesn’t always mean you need a root canal, it often does.
• Discoloration. A tooth that is suffering bad tooth decay will begin to change colors, often turning gray or black.

During a root canal treatment, the pulp of the tooth is removed and the infection and decay are cleared out of the tooth, allowing it to be sealed up so it can heal.

One of the biggest benefits of root canal treatment is that you receive relief. When you have been dealing with persistent pain, sensitivity, and swelling, being freed from those things can be very welcome.

Another benefit of root canal treatment is that you can save the tooth. When the infection and decay reach the inside of the tooth, you usually only have two options - a root canal or extraction.

A good candidate would have any of the signs listed below:

• Toothache
• Jaw pain
• Swelling of gums, face, neck
• Tooth sensitivity
• Injury or trauma to tooth
• Blisters on gums
• Discoloration

These signs may be indicative of other dental needs as well, so it is important to be evaluated by your dentist.

At Davis Gribble Hollowwa , we strive to provide our patients with a comfortable experience and the highest quality dental treatment. We have a dedicated team of professionals that keep our office flowing smoothly with organized efficiency. All of this together leads to elevated satisfaction amongst our patients.

If you find yourself with any of the signs of tooth decay that may have reached the pulp, you may need a root canal. And we are here to take the steps necessary to bring you relief - and heal your tooth. We even have an in-house lab to prepare your dental crown so that your tooth can be fully restored.

When you are ready, we have dental treatment options you can feel good about.

No. Local anesthetic is used and you will not feel any pain during the procedure. Afterward, you may experience some minor discomfort, but over-the-counter pain relievers can provide the relief you need.

It is recommended that you get a dental crown after a root canal to restore the integrity of the tooth. The hole inside will require a large filling - and that causes the walls of the tooth to lack strength. Further, if the tooth has been discolored due to decay, a crown can benefit cosmetically.

It is always better to attempt to save a tooth rather than extract it. Removing a tooth impacts your jaw bone and the surrounding teeth, requiring additional procedures such as dental implants.

When considering alternatives to a root canal, there are a few options to explore. Firstly, if a tooth is extensively damaged or if the patient simply doesn't wish to undergo the procedure, one alternative is tooth extraction. This involves the complete removal of the tooth, typically due to irreversible damage or severe dental complications.

Another alternative to a root canal is dental restoration through the use of dental fillings or dental crowns. Dental fillings are commonly used to treat minor decay or damage by removing the affected portion of the tooth and filling it with a composite material. On the other hand, dental crowns are utilized when extensive damage or decay is present. A dental crown is a cap that is placed over the entire tooth to restore its structure, strength, and appearance.

In some cases, when the infection is limited to the pulp of the tooth, a procedure called pulp capping may be considered. Pulp capping involves removing only the infected portion of the pulp and placing a protective material over it, allowing the tooth to heal naturally and avoid further damage or infection. This option is typically recommended for cases where the infection hasn't spread extensively.

Lastly, in rare circumstances, root canal alternatives such as antibiotics and medication may be used to address the infection and alleviate pain temporarily. However, it's important to note that these alternative treatments are not permanent solutions and should be followed up with appropriate dental care.

It is crucial to consult with a qualified dentist to discuss individual circumstances and determine the most suitable alternative to a root canal.