Root Canals

During a root canal procedure, we clean out decay that has formed in the pulp of your tooth. This is located in the soft core and extends down to the jawbone. If any decay gets in there, it can cause an infection; thankfully, root canals remove that infection!

What Happens During a Root Canal Procedure?

First, your dentist will rub numbing medication on the gums around the affected tooth. Once the area is numb, they will make a small opening at the top of your tooth. They’ll remove the pulp and carefully clean the canals of the tooth.

If needed, your dentist will coat the canals of your tooth with topical antibiotics. This will ensure the infection is gone and prevent another one from occurring. Finally, you’ll receive a temporary filling to protect the canals from damage caused by your saliva.

Signs You Need a Root Canal

Tooth pain and sensitivity are some of the common signs of needing a root canal. According to a study in 2016, most root canal symptoms will vary depending on the kind of bacteria in the infection. If you experience any of the following, you should immediately see a dentist:

• Tooth discoloration
• Swollen gums
• Cracked or chipped tooth
• Loose tooth
• Tooth sensitivity to heat or cold

Why Do People Get Tooth Infections?

If you aren’t staying on top of your oral hygiene, you’re introducing your mouth to infections that require root canals. Those who will likely need this procedure are:

• Smokers
• Someone who experienced tooth trauma
• Someone who doesn’t brush at least twice a day
• Someone who eats a lot of sugary food
• Someone who never visits a dentist