Saving Natural Teeth from Extraction
If you have a severe toothache that’s keeping you up at night and preventing you from focusing on your work, it’s likely a result of a tooth infection. This occurs when harmful oral bacteria gain access to the sensitive network of nerves and vessels in the inner chamber of your tooth, called the pulp. In an effort to preserve your natural pearly white and keep the infection from spreading, we can perform a root canal in Winslow. Contact our team today to learn more about this common procedure and how you can achieve relief from the pain.
Why Choose Dental Innovations for Tooth Extractions?
Sedation Dentistry
Available
Natural-Looking
Crowns
High-Quality Dental Restorations
Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?
Learning you need a root canal may not be the most exciting news to receive; however, if Dr. Baker or Dr. Barlow are recommending this common procedure, it is because they want to help you keep your natural tooth and avoid possible extraction.
When your tooth’s nerve (the pulp) becomes infected or damaged, you will likely experience immense pain from the bacteria reaching this sensitive area of your tooth. Allowing it to remain untreated will only increase the discomfort you experience and eventually result in a tooth extraction to prevent further harm to your oral health.
By allowing your emergency dentist in Winslow to perform a root canal, you can not only achieve relief from the pain, but you’ll also save additional time and money on various tooth replacement options.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal
If you are experiencing any of the following signs or symptoms, it is likely your dentist will recommend root canal therapy:
- Redness, swelling, and tenderness surrounding the tooth (in the gum tissue)
- Pimple-like growths on the gums
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain and difficulty biting down on a certain tooth
- Consistent pain in one tooth
How a Root Canal Works
The process of getting a root canal isn’t as painful as people will lead you to believe. In fact, the first step we take is to inject a local anesthetic into the area we’re treating to make the process virtually painless. Then, we access the inner chamber of your tooth to remove the infected pulp and sanitize the area. We’ll then rebuild the structure using a substance called gutta percha and top the treated tooth off with a customized dental crown for added protection.
What to Expect After a Root Canal
While you will feel no pain throughout your root canal procedure, you can expect to experience some soreness and discomfort once the anesthesia wears off. This is completely normal and can be treated by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever as instructed. If we prescribe any medication, please be sure to take it according to the instructions provided.
You might also have mild sensitivity following your root canal, but do not worry, as it should not last more than a few days. Getting plenty of rest, avoiding hot or cold foods or beverages, and ceasing the use of tobacco in the days following your procedure is important for successful healing.
Should you experience pain that lasts longer than a few days or increased sensitivity, make sure to contact our office as soon as possible.
