Root canal treatment is a dental procedure to save a severely infected or damaged tooth from extraction. During the procedure, the dentist in Lincoln Park, MI, removes the infected or inflamed pulp tissue from inside the tooth, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and seals them to prevent further infection. This process eliminates pain, swelling, and other symptoms associated with tooth infections while preserving the natural tooth structure and function.

Root canal treatment is crucial for preventing the spread of disease to surrounding teeth and tissues, as well as avoiding tooth extraction, which can lead to further oral health complications and costly tooth replacement options. By preserving the integrity of the natural tooth, root canal treatment restores oral health, alleviates discomfort, and allows patients to maintain a functional and aesthetically pleasing smile. 

Signs That Indicate the Need for Root Canal Treatment

Persistent Tooth Pain

One of the most common symptoms of a tooth requiring root canal treatment in Lincoln Park, MI, is persistent or intense tooth pain, especially when biting or chewing. This pain may be sharp, throbbing, or radiating to other areas of the mouth or face. It often indicates an infection or inflammation within the tooth pulp, necessitating root canal therapy to alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications. 

Sensitivity to Temperature

It could be a sign of tooth nerve damage or infection if you experience heightened sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages that linger even after removing the stimuli. This sensitivity occurs when the tooth pulp becomes inflamed or compromised, triggering discomfort in response to temperature changes. Root canal treatment can address the underlying cause of sensitivity, providing relief and restoring normal tooth function. 

Gum Swelling and Tenderness

Swelling and tenderness in the gums surrounding a specific tooth are common indicators of infection or abscess formation. As the infection progresses, the gums may appear red, swollen, and painful to the touch. Sometimes, a small bump or pimple-like lesion (abscess) may develop on the gums near the affected tooth. Root canal treatment is necessary to eliminate the infection and prevent it from spreading to surrounding tissues. 

Discoloration of the Tooth

A tooth that has undergone trauma or sustained damage may change color over time, appearing darkened or discolored compared to surrounding teeth. This discoloration occurs when the tooth pulp becomes necrotic or dies, causing changes in the tooth's internal structure. Root canal treatment can remove the infected pulp, halt further discoloration, and restore the tooth's natural appearance. 

Persistent Bad Breath or Taste

Despite maintaining good oral hygiene, chronic bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth may indicate an underlying dental infection. Bacteria thriving within an infected tooth can produce foul-smelling gases or substances, leading to persistent halitosis or an unpleasant taste sensation. Root canal treatment can eliminate the source of infection, effectively addressing these symptoms and promoting oral freshness. 

Loose or Damaged Tooth

A tooth that feels loose or has sustained damage from trauma or decay may require root canal treatment to salvage it. The compromised structural integrity of the tooth leaves it vulnerable to infection and further deterioration. Root canal therapy can strengthen the tooth by removing the infected pulp, filling the root canals, and restoring it with a crown or filling material, thereby preserving its functionality and stability. 

The Procedure for Root Canal Treatments

The process typically begins with the administering of local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort throughout the procedure. Once the tooth and surrounding area are numbed, the dentist isolates the tooth with a rubber dam to keep it dry and free from contamination by saliva. 

Next, the dentist at Polyviou Family Dentistry, creates an opening in the tooth's crown to access the infected or inflamed pulp chamber and root canals. Using specialized instruments, the dentist carefully removes the diseased pulp tissue and any debris or bacteria from inside the tooth and root canals. The canals are then cleaned, shaped, and disinfected to eliminate any remaining bacteria and prevent further infection. Antimicrobial medication may sometimes be applied to the canals to ensure thorough disinfection.

Once the canals are prepared, they are filled with a biocompatible material, such as gutta-percha, to seal them and prevent recontamination. Finally, the opening in the tooth's crown is sealed with a temporary or permanent filling material to restore its structure and protect it from further damage. A dental crown may be placed over the tooth to provide additional strength and support.

Following root canal treatment, patients may experience discomfort or sensitivity, usually managed with over-the-counter pain medication, and typically subsides within a few days. Overall, root canal treatment saves infected or damaged teeth, alleviates pain, and improves oral health and function. Contact us today! 

The root canal treatment is a highly beneficial dental procedure that offers pain relief preserves natural teeth, prevents further infection, improves oral health, and enhances the smile's aesthetics. If you're experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, visit Polyviou Family Dentistry at 3784 Dix Hwy, Lincoln Park, MI 48146, or call us at 313-388-2400 to determine if root canal treatment is the right solution.