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When a tooth begins to decay, it requires a filling to prevent infection of its pulp, or collection of blood vessels and nerves. If the tooth isn’t filled by a dentist, the decay spreads to the pulp, resulting in pain, abscesses, and other serious complications. Root canal therapy is a dental care procedure that restores the tooth and protects it from further infection. Here are a few key facts if you think you might need a root canal.

What Are the Symptoms of an Infected Tooth & What Are Root Canals?

The Symptoms

Left untreated, bacteria and plaque eat away at the surface of a tooth until they reach the pulp. Infected pulp breaks down within the tooth, allowing bacteria to flourish. You could develop an abscess, or pus-filled pocket, at the end of the tooth root as the body’s way of containing and managing the multiplying bacteria. Abscesses typically precede other symptoms including tooth pain and sensitivity and gum inflammation.

dentistOther symptoms indicating you might need a root canal include swelling in the face, neck, and head, and lymph node tenderness. Holes can develop in infected teeth, causing drainage issues.

The Procedure

Think of root canal procedures as more detailed fillings. First, your dentist or endodontist takes an x-ray of the tooth to see if the surrounding bone has been damaged by infection. Next, you receive local anesthesia to numb your mouth. Your dentist or endodontist drills into and cleans the tooth, removing all of the infected pulp before sealing it to prevent further infection. A dental dam is placed around the infected tooth to prevent saliva and debris contamination during the procedure.

 

If you’re a root canal candidate, visit Dentaworks Hawaii in Honolulu. A community member for over 30 years, this dental care facility is under the direction of Dr. Douglas Chang, DDS, and offers a full suite of family and cosmetic dentistry services, including emergency care. Call (808) 528-1200 to schedule an appointment or visit the dentist and his team online for service information. Get more dental care tips on their Facebook.

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