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Tip-Offs That You Might Need Root Canal Treatment

Tip-Offs That You Might Need Root Canal Treatment

by | Jul 21, 2017 | Blog, Dental Topics, Uncategorized

Sometimes you experience symptoms in your mouth that cause you to wonder what’s going on and if you need to see a dentist. If you are thinking you might need root canal treatment, it’s time to see the dentist for an examination. Here are some common signs that you may need this treatment. Keep in mind, however, that you may or may not experience all of these symptoms.

Pain

One indicator that something is wrong is when a tooth causes pain. Sometimes pain may be severe, causing you to rush to the dentist. If the pain is sharp or intense, or even if it is a dull ache that lasts for several days, make a dental appointment as soon as possible. Remember that some teeth requiring root canal treatment don’t hurt at all, so regular checkups are important.

Swelling

An obvious sign of infection is swelling. If you notice your jaw or face is swollen, see your dentist. It doesn’t always mean root canal therapy is needed, but the dentist can advise you about the best way to treat the swelling and any infection.

Sensitivity

If you experience sensitivity when you consume anything that is hot or cold, it can be a sign that root canal treatment is necessary. Mild sensitivity can even be a sign, especially if the sensation occurs near a certain tooth each time.

Darkened tooth

Discoloration of a tooth can mean something unwanted is occurring within the tooth’s nerve space. Gray, dark yellow, or black are colors to look for and to consult your dentist if they appear. A tooth may also darken as a result of trauma or decay, so a professional examination is recommended to determine what’s causing the color change.

Gum boil

A gum boil is a lesion resembling a pimple that may appear on your gum tissue. It is often related to an infection inside the soft tissues of your mouth, and a boil results when pus accumulates. The lesion usually is tender and swelling can occur. See your dentist if you develop a gum boil, even if it comes and goes.

Schedule your appointment at our McDonough dental office

Root Canals Get a Bad Rap

Root Canals Get a Bad Rap

by | Jun 14, 2017 | Blog, Dental Topics, Uncategorized

Root Canal Dentist in McDonough

If you ask most people, they would rather do just about anything than get a root canal. The truth is root canal therapy actually alleviates pain and restores the health of a damaged tooth. With modern sedation options, patients remain calm and relaxed during the procedure.

To understand how a root canal works, it helps to look at the anatomy of a tooth. Your teeth contain a hard outer shell called enamel, a layer of dentin, and a soft nerve center referred to as pulp. This tissue, made up of nerves and blood vessels, keeps the tooth healthy, ensuring blood flow and providing vital nutrients.

When a tooth experiences severe trauma or develops deep decay, the pulp can sustain damage and die. Often, pressure and infection will build up inside the tooth. To save the tooth, your dentist may recommend a root canal, which can be performed in one appointment.

Signs you may need a root canal:

  • A lingering toothache
  • Blood or pus surrounding the tooth
  • Pain during chewing
  • Swelling in the gums or nearby tissue
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold

For a root canal, the dentist will numb the tooth and then clean out the infection. Next, the doctor will sterilize the inside area and seal off the tooth to prevent future problems. After a root canal, the tooth will usually require a crown for a complete restoration. Most people actually feel better after root canal therapy. In fact, many patients only need over-the-counter pain relievers for mild soreness.

If you live in the McDonough area, contact us today