Tooth pain that won’t go away is one of the most recognizable signs that you might require a root canal treatment. But in certain cases, your dentist may determine that the procedure is necessary even if your tooth doesn’t hurt. Do you need to have a root canal performed to protect your smile? Here’s a closer look at the treatment and some of the warning signs that it might be necessary.
When is Root Canal Treatment Necessary?
A root canal treatment is recommended if the pulp at the center of the tooth becomes infected. Dental pulp is a collection of connective tissues, nerves, and blood vessels. Infected dental pulp often causes significant pain, and it can also lead to tooth loss if it isn’t treated in time.
By performing a root canal treatment, your dentist can remove the infected dental pulp, thereby saving the tooth, stopping any pain, and preventing the infection from spreading further.
What are the Signs That You Might Need a Root Canal Treatment?
Even if you’re not currently experiencing any pain in your tooth, you may still need a root canal treatment if:
- Your Tooth is Cracked or Chipped: When the enamel protecting your tooth is cracked or chipped, it can leave the pulp susceptible to attacks from harmful bacteria.
- Your Gums are Swollen: If the gum tissue around one particular tooth has become swollen, it might be a sign of infected dental pulp.
- A Crown Has Been Lost: Dental crowns are often used to repair chipped or cracked teeth. If a crown falls off, the exposed tooth may be at risk for infection.
If you have any reason to suspect that your tooth might be infected, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can closely examine the tooth in question and capture any necessary X-rays to determine whether a root canal treatment might be required.
What Can You Expect During Root Canal Treatment?
If you do need a root canal treatment, you can rest assured that the procedure is nowhere near as painful as its reputation suggests. Your dentist will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic in order to help you stay comfortable while your tooth is being worked on.
During your root canal treatment, a small opening will be created in the tooth. The dental pulp will be carefully removed, and the inside of the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned to get rid of any bacteria that may have been left behind. After that, the tooth will be filled with a biocompatible substance before being resealed. It may be necessary to place a dental crown to strengthen and protect the treated tooth.
In short, even if an infected tooth isn’t causing you pain, you should still have a root canal treatment performed as soon as possible in order to protect your smile.
About the Practice
At Rausch Family Dentistry, our team has been helping patients enjoy healthier, more confident smiles since 1984. We always listen closely to our patients so that we can provide high-quality care that meets their unique needs. Our wide range of services includes comfortable root canal treatments for infected teeth. If you think you might need a root canal treatment, you can request an emergency appointment at Rausch Family Dentistry in Stone Mountain by calling (770) 931-3388.