When a tooth is infected, a filling or crown may not be enough to offer treatment and prevent tooth loss. However, an endodontic treatment could actually treat the issue and bring relief to the smile. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist talks about the benefits of root canal treatment.
The Causes of Infected Teeth
At the center of each tooth is a collection of tissues known as the pulp, which keeps the teeth functional and healthy. A dental infection means that harmful oral bacteria made contact with the pulp, leading to painful symptoms and without treatment, the risk of the tooth’s death and loss. The infected tooth could develop due to an untreated cavity, or even a serious injury to the tooth. Warning signs could include tooth sensitivity and toothaches, pain when you bite down or chew, aches in the neck, jaw, and face. You could also experience headaches, swelling near the tooth, or a discharge from it. When you encounter one or more of these potential symptoms, then let us know right away.
The Endodontic Treatment Option
When you come to us with an infected tooth, we will use digital x-rays to assess the cause and severity, so we can plan treatment accordingly. If you need a root canal, we will begin by numbing the tooth and for anxious patients, offering a dental sedation. When you’re comfortable, we then open the tooth to access and remove the tissues form within. Once we do, we clean the interior and add a unique filling material known as gutta percha. The last step is to actually cap the tooth with a dental crown., The restoration will be custom-made from lifelike materials like ceramic, so not only do you have a durable chewing surface, but the corn looks natural and clings with the tooth too. This could bring instant relief, and safeguard your smile from tooth loss and the potential spread of infection to these parts of your smile.
Taking Steps to Prevent Infection
To help prevent a dental infection, be sure you brush and floss daily, which removes stray food and drink particles to prevent plaque buildup. Any buildup that does occur can be removed gently in a dental cleaning every six months. These actions not only fight cavities and infection, but gingivitis and gum disease as well. If you have any questions, give us a call today.
Talk To Your Kansas City, MO Dentist About Endodontic Dentistry
Our team wants to help you enjoy a healthy and strong smile. If you would like to find out more about the process of preserving a smile and preventing problems, contact your Kansas City, MO, dentist, Dr. Murphy, by calling (816) 531-8000.
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