Reasons to Consider Root Canal Therapy

A tooth infection can bring a patient’s life to a grinding halt. In addition to the ongoing discomfort, those who fail to treat this common condition could risk further damage to the nearby teeth and soft tissue. Instead of ignoring these warnings signs, there are a few reasons why you might want to start considering root canal therapy.

Signs of a Tooth Infection

An untreated tooth infection is both painful and dangerous. Most patients will first realize that they have an infection due to constant pain around the tooth. This discomfort might come in the form of a dull ache throughout the day or a sharp pain while eating. As time goes on, the pain will almost always get worse. You might also notice that one or more teeth are particularly sensitive to extreme temperatures when eating hot foods or having a cold drink.

If the infection remains untreated, the appearance of the tooth and the nearby soft tissue will begin to change. Generally, the tooth will lose its vibrancy and eventually become a dark shade of yellow or brown. The infected cells that escape from the tooth could inflame the patient’s gums and create unusual white pustules.

An Untreated Tooth Infection

Even if the pain eventually goes away, the infection will remain in the patient’s body. Over a short period of time, it will quickly spread to almost every other part of their mouth. In extreme cases, these infections have resulted in deaths. This takes place when the infection eventually reaches the patient’s blood stream and enters into their heart or brain. Luckily, these issues can almost always be avoided with root canal therapy.

What Exactly Is Root Canal Therapy?

Quite a bit of misinformation is spread about this procedure, and that is why many patients avoid it at all costs. Some people are nervous about the alleged discomfort while others feel as if they may lose their tooth. These individuals will be glad to hear that root canal therapy is quicker, safer and more comfortable than ever. The primary goal of root canal therapy is to remove the infected pulp of a tooth in order to prevent permanent damage from taking place.

Before a root canal is performed, our dentist will need to carefully examine your mouth and take X-rays of your teeth. After that has been done, our dental team can begin the process of numbing your soft tissue so that you are comfortable during the treatment. The infected pulp will then be removed and the tooth will be sealed.

Learn More Today

If you have a problem tooth and think it may be time for root canal therapy, set up a consultation at Implant and Comprehensive Dentistry, with offices in Champions Gate and Winter Haven. Our team of experts will help you determine if root canal therapy is right for you. Contact us today to schedule your appointment to learn more.