
A root canal is a fairly common dental procedure that usually incites a lot of fear into dental patients who find that they might need one. The truth is, the root canal itself is not a procedure that needs to be feared. In fact, it is a positive way of treating an infected tooth that ultimately saves the tooth from having to be extracted.
Let’s go over the reasons patients might need root canals in Wilmington, DE.
Reasons You Might Need a Root Canal
Usually a root canal is need to treat a tooth when the nerve or pulp has become infected or inflamed. This is generally caused by dental decay, a tooth that is cracked or broken, or a tooth that is injured. Most people get a toothache that just doesn’t go away, and they realize something is amiss. Pain intensity can range from mild to severe, and it might get worse when you bite down on the affected tooth. Sometimes the pain is accompanied by sensitivity to hot and cold. Your gums might also be tender and swollen.
What to Do If You Have a Toothache
Remember that dental pain is never normal. If you have any kind of toothache, you need to contact your dentist right away. Depending on how bad the pain is, you may need emergency treatment. An ice pack applied onto the outside of your jaw can help with pain and swelling until you get into the dentist.
The Root Canal Procedure
The first thing your dentist will do is examine the tooth and take x-rays to figure out the cause of your pain. You might need a root canal, or possibly a less invasive treatment will take of the problem. Only your dentist will be able to make this diagnosis.
During the procedure, a dentist will use a drill to remove the affected nerve and pulp of the tooth. The tooth will be sealed to protect it against any further damage. Because this procedure weakens the tooth structure, a crown is usually applied to strengthen it and give you back normal funcationality.
For root canals in Wilmington, DE, please do not hesitate to contact our team at Dr. Mark C. Gladnick, DDS, today!