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Are you experiencing tooth pain that just won't go away? Have you been told that a root canal might be necessary to save your tooth? Don't worry, you're not alone. A root canal procedure is a dental treatment that aims to save an infected or damaged tooth from extraction. It involves removing the infected pulp and nerve tissues inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and then sealing them off to prevent further infection.

Signs that You Might Need a Root Canal

When it comes to dental health, recognizing the signs of potential issues is key. 

• One such sign that you might need a root canal is persistent tooth pain. This could be an indication that the pulp inside your tooth has become infected or damaged.
• Another red flag to watch out for is sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. If you find yourself wincing in pain when you consume something hot or cold, it may be due to an infection deep within the tooth.
• Swollen gums around a specific tooth can also signal the need for a root canal procedure. Inflammation in this area can occur as a result of an infection spreading from the inner layers of the tooth.
• Additionally, if you notice any discoloration or darkening of a particular tooth, it's worth getting checked by your dentist. Discoloration could indicate damage to the internal structures and may require treatment through root canal therapy.
• Pay attention to any recurring abscesses or gum boils on your gums near a specific tooth. These painful pus-filled pockets are often caused by infections reaching critical levels and should not be ignored.

Remember, these signs are not definitive proof that a root canal is needed but serve as indicators for further examination by your dentist. Timely intervention can potentially save your natural tooth and prevent further complications down the road!

The Process of Getting a Root Canal

The process of getting a root canal may seem intimidating, but it is actually a fairly straightforward procedure that can save your tooth and alleviate pain. Before the actual root canal treatment begins, your dentist will numb the area around the affected tooth to ensure you are comfortable throughout the process. They may also place a dental dam to isolate the tooth and keep it clean during treatment.

Next, your dentist will create a small access hole in the tooth to reach the infected pulp inside. Using special instruments, they will carefully remove all of the damaged or infected pulp from within the root canals. Once all of the diseased tissue has been removed, your dentist will thoroughly clean and disinfect each canal to prevent further infection. They may also use antibiotics to help eliminate any remaining bacteria.

After cleaning, your dentist will fill each canal with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This helps seal off the canals and prevents reinfection. In most cases, after completing these steps, your dentist will place a temporary filling on top of the treated tooth until a permanent restoration (such as a crown) can be placed at another appointment.

While getting a root canal might sound daunting at first, remember that it is an important procedure that can save your natural tooth and provide relief from pain or discomfort. Trust in your dentist's expertise, and rest assured, knowing you are taking steps towards better oral health!

To find out more about the dental services offered at Solace Dental, call (630) 759-3595 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 287 N Weber Rd, Bolingbrook, IL, 60490.