When a tooth is infected, you need treatment to avoid pain when you eat, and to avoid losing your tooth altogether. To help save the tooth and bring relief, you should see us for an endodontic treatment. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist will discuss how we safeguard smiles with root canal therapy.
The Causes and Symptoms of Your Infected Tooth
At the center of each tooth is the pulp, a collection of tissues that keeps the tooth healthy and functional, overseeing the flow of blood and nutrients to and from the tooth. An infection means that bacteria has come into contact with the pulp. This could happen when a cavity isn’t treated with a filling and is instead allowed to grow and spread throughout the tooth, or if injury or teeth grinding expose the interior to harmful bacteria. Warning signs could include tooth sensitivity, toothaches, or even pain when you bite down and chew. Toothaches, jaw pain, swelling, and a discharge from the tooth could also develop. When you experience these warning signs, please see us right away!
The Root Canal Procedure
To save the tooth and stop discomfort, we can offer an endodontic treatment known as root canal therapy. This is a safe and comfortable procedure. We first take detailed digital x-rays to assess the infection, and then we numb the smile before opening the tooth and removing the infected tissues from within. The interior of the tooth is then thoroughly cleaned, and we add a special restorative material known as gutta percha. Finally, we cap the tooth with a dental crown. The crown will be custom-made or lifelike materials, so it not only protects the tooth, but looks natural and blends with the smile too.
Moving Forward with a Preventive Approach
You and your family can take steps to avoid infections in the future. First, take time to brush your teeth for two minutes in the morning and again at night, with a fluoride toothpaste. You should also floss every evening too, and see us every six months for a professional cleaning and an exam. These actions, along with a healthy diet, help limit the risk of cavities and infection, and also fight bad breath, teeth stains, and even gingivitis and gum disease.
If you have any questions about how we treat an infected tooth with a root canal, then contact our team today to learn more. A comfortable smile is possible again!
Your Kansas City, MO, Dentist Offers Endodontic Treatment
We want to help protect your smile from pain and tooth loss with endodontic treatment. If you would like to learn about our restorative treatment options, then contact your Kansas City, MO, dentist, Dr. Murphy, by calling (816) 531-8000.
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