A toothache could be a sign that you need a root canal

We all know just how stressful it can be to deal with a toothache. While many problems can lead to a root canal, one of the most common reasons is an infected or inflamed dental pulp. When bacteria can get inside the tooth, either through severe decay or a crack, it impacts the health of the dental pulp. This is when pain sets in and typically when our patients hightail it to our Wakefield, MA, dentist Dr. Mona El-Sheikh for immediate treatment.

What are the signs that I might need a root canal?

You may need a root canal if you are experiencing any of these symptoms,

• Severe dental pain
• Pain that gets worse when chewing or putting pressure on the tooth
• Lingering tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
• A chipped or cracked tooth
• An abscess (a pimple-like bump on the gums)
• Swelling of the gums around the affected area
  
  

What does a root canal do?

When the tissue inside the tooth becomes infected and it impacts the health of the dental pulp, the only option is to remove the diseased tissue to prevent it from spreading deeper into the tooth, the root canals, and the jawbone. This is why a root canal is performed.

This endodontic procedure will remove the infected pulp and disinfect the inside of the tooth and root canals before sealing up these areas of the tooth to prevent future infection.

Doesn’t it hurt?

We know that root canal treatment has a bad reputation, but we’re not quite sure why. After all, this simple procedure is really no more invasive than treating a cavity. Also, just like treating a cavity, we will numb the area around the tooth before we even begin the procedure so you shouldn’t feel any discomfort.

Plus, anyone who is dealing with the mind-numbing pain associated with an inflamed or infected dental pulp will be happy to know that many patients experience relief the moment the local anesthesia is administered. After all, our Wakefield, MA, dentist is removing the source of your pain through root canal therapy, so you won’t have to worry about that awful toothache anymore.

Do you still have questions about getting a root canal? Or are you dealing with a toothache? Our Wakefield, MA, general dentist also provides immediate dental care to patients dealing with dental emergencies such as toothache. Turn to the dental experts at Wakefield Family Dental Center. Call us at (781) 245-2566.