Root canal therapy is designed to save a damaged or infected tooth, preventing the need for extraction. If you’re dealing with tooth sensitivity, discomfort while chewing, or visible swelling in your gums, this procedure can restore your oral health and give you back your smile. At Smiles of Wilmington in Wilmington, DE, we specialize in root canal therapy to ensure your comfort and well-being throughout the process.
Don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Schedule your consultation with our team today.
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is a treatment designed to remove infected or damaged tissue from inside the tooth, helping to preserve the tooth’s structure. It is a simple yet effective way to eliminate discomfort and prevent future oral health issues. Without this treatment, you might face the need for a tooth extraction.
- Tooth preservation: The treatment removes infected tissue and keeps your natural tooth intact.
- Eliminate infection: The procedure prevents the infection from spreading to other teeth or your jawbone.
- Return to normal function: After the procedure, a crown is placed to restore the tooth’s function and strength.
The Root Canal Process
This straightforward treatment can usually be completed in one or two visits. After a thorough examination, your dentist will clean out the infected tissue, disinfect the tooth, and seal it to prevent further infection. The tooth will then be restored with a custom crown to protect it and restore normal function.
- Diagnosis and preparation: Your dentist will examine your tooth, take x-rays, and confirm if a root canal is necessary.
- Cleaning and disinfection: The infected tissue inside the tooth is carefully removed and the canal is cleaned to prevent reinfection.
- Sealing and restoration: Once the tooth is cleaned, it is sealed and a crown is placed to restore its strength and appearance.
Signs Of A Tooth Infection
Recognizing the symptoms of an infected tooth early can help you avoid more serious complications. Common signs to watch for include persistent tooth sensitivity, pain while chewing, and visible swelling in the gums near the affected tooth. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to seek treatment before the infection spreads.
- Sensitivity to temperature: Persistent sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures may indicate infection.
- Pain while chewing: Discomfort or pain when chewing, biting, or touching the tooth could signal an infection.
- Gum swelling: Swollen, tender gums near the affected tooth are often a sign of infection.
- Discoloration: A darkening tooth or visible cracks can suggest that the tooth pulp is infected.
The Importance Of Prompt Treatment
Delaying treatment can result in more severe issues, including tooth loss and infection spreading to surrounding areas. Choosing prompt treatment helps preserve your tooth and prevents complications. It also reduces the risk of needing a more invasive procedure like an extraction.
- Prevent tooth extraction: Treating the infection early helps you save your natural tooth.
- Preserve oral health: Prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth or your gums.
- Avoid further complications: Timely treatment reduces the risk of complications, such as abscesses or bone loss.
Don’t Let Infection Take Away Your Smile
If you are dealing with discomfort, do not wait for it to get worse. Root canal therapy can save your teeth, restore your smile, and help you enjoy a healthy mouth once again. Contact Smiles of Wilmington in Wilmington, DE today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to a pain-free smile.
