Root canal treatment is a dental procedure aimed at saving a severely infected or decayed tooth by removing the damaged pulp from within the tooth. During the procedure, the dental surgeon or dental specialist removes the infected pulp, cleans and disinfects the inside of the tooth, then fills and seals it with a biocompatible material to prevent further infection. This treatment helps alleviate pain, save the natural tooth and restore its functionality, often preventing the need for extraction. But when exactly is it necessary? Let’s explore more in this article.
Persistent Tooth Pain
When a tooth develops decay, cracks, or trauma that penetrate deeply into its structure, bacteria can infiltrate the pulp chamber, where the nerves and blood vessels are housed. This leads to infection and inflammation, putting pressure on the nerves that can cause intense or persistent pain that radiates throughout the jaw and face, especially during chewing. Moreover, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, resulting in further discomfort and potential complications like abscess formation. The pain is often a sign that the pulp is severely damaged and requires intervention such as root canal treatment to preserve the tooth.
Sensitivity to Temperature
Sensitive teeth are common and can affect more than half the population. However, when this heightened sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold substances, lasts longer than usual, it can be a sign of infection or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp. Normally, a tooth’s enamel and dentine layers provide insulation against temperature changes to prevent sensitivity. Conversely, when decay or damage exposes the underlying dentine, the nerves within the pulp become more susceptible to external stimuli. As such, rapid temperature fluctuations can trigger sharp, lingering pain due to the nerves’ reaction.
Gum Swelling and Tenderness
Swollen, tender or discoloured gums around a specific tooth often indicate an infection that may necessitate root canal treatment. The swelling and tenderness arise from the body’s immune response to the infection, leading to inflammation in the surrounding gum tissue. It may be localised to the area around the infected tooth, making it sensitive to touch and triggering discomfort during chewing or brushing. The presence of infection can also cause the gums to appear discoloured, ranging from red to purple as increased blood flows to the affected region. Addressing the underlying issue through root canal therapy is essential to relieve symptoms and prevent the spread of infection.
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a painful collection of pus that forms within the teeth or gums when bacteria invade the dental pulp. An inflamed or infected pulp can cause bacteria to multiply quickly, leading to pressure build-up within the tooth. If left untreated, the infection can spread beyond the root of the tooth and into surrounding tissues, manifesting as an abscess. Patients with a dental abscess may experience painful swelling, sometimes accompanied by fever and a foul taste or odour in the mouth. During treatment, the dentist will drain the abscess, remove the source of infection and might administer antibiotics to eliminate any remaining bacteria and minimise further complications.
Neglecting dental problems compromises your overall well-being, which is why visiting a dentist immediately is crucial if you find yourself experiencing any of the above symptoms. The right dental services and professional care can go a long way in keeping conditions at bay and maintaining optimal oral health.
With over 29 years of experience, Atria-City Dental offers a range of general and specialist services including root canal treatment, gum treatment and more to cater to different dental needs.
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