Have you been experiencing a toothache that won’t go away? You may need root canal (endodontic) therapy. Dr. John Conness and his team are are highly experienced in all areas of dentistry and can help determine of you need this or another treatment to resolve your pain. Here, Dr. Conness describes the common symptoms to look for when determining whether a patient will need root canal therapy.
Common Signs You Need Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is typically necessary when infection or injury to a tooth that renders it no longer viable. There are several symptoms that may signal the need for root canal therapy.
- Pain in the area that comes on suddenly, gets worse when you lie down or move quickly, or sensitivity that lingers after you drink something cold.
- Swelling around the tooth root.
- A pimple or boil on the gum line (called a fistula) which may be bloody or contain pus and are white, yellow or red.
- Change in color of the tooth to yellow, gray, or even black.
- Abscess in the jawbone. This sign of infection can only be determined by a dental x-ray
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and suspect you may need root canal therapy, it is important that you are examined by a dentist as soon as possible.
The Root Canal Therapy Procedure
The goal of root canal therapy is to remove the infected and damaged pulp in order to save the natural tooth. The pulp is what keeps a tooth healthy and alive and consists of soft tissues including nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues. During the root canal procedure, a hole is made in the tooth and the pulp is carefully removed using a special instrument. The tooth is then filled and typically covered with a crown to restore its strength and durability.
By saving the natural tooth, canal therapy helps patients avoid tooth extraction and the cost of tooth replacement.
Prevention
Preventing the need for root canal therapy starts with good oral hygiene habits at home to maintain health and prevent cavities and infections. Regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings and examinations can also prevent problems from developing or catch potential problems before they develop into bigger issues.
Contact Dr. John M. Conness
You don’t need to suffer in pain! Dr. Conness will take good care of you and determine if root canal therapy or another treatment is necessary. Contact Dr. Conness today to schedule an appointment at either our Streator or Ottawa office. We are here to help you feel better!