Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?

That slight twinge in your tooth that was bothering you a couple of weeks ago has now become a more consistent problem. You’re feeling it every time you enjoy a cold drink, and it’s taking longer to go away. You’re not sure if it’s time to contact your dentist or if you might need root canal therapy. Here’s what you should know.

The Telltale Signs of a Dental Infection

When you’re tooth starts feeling sensitive to temperature, it’s likely that there might be decay in your tooth that is developing and progressing. This is actually the right time to call your dentist because even if the sensitivity goes away quickly, the decay will get worse without treatment. If you’re proactive about calling your dentist for a checkup right away, you may be able to avoid treatment like root canal therapy.

If you’re tooth has become painful to the point where Ibuprofen is not helping or the discomfort is keeping you up at night, it is definitely time to contact your dentist in Syracuse, NY. This scenario is likely indicating that your tooth is infected and it’s important to treat it as soon as possible as a dental infection will not go away without treatment and could result in tooth loss if it’s left untreated.

You may also notice these symptoms if your tooth needs a root canal:

• Pain when chewing or biting down
• Discoloration or darkening of your tooth enamel
• Inflammation or irritation of the gum tissue around the tooth

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure where your dentist will remove the infected tissue within your tooth and seal it again. When your tooth has had time to heal, it will be strengthened with a dental crown. This procedure not only eliminates your pain and infection, but also preserves your tooth.

Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?

A common misconception about root canals is that they are painful. The truth is that it’s actually the infection that is causing your pain. Root canal therapy will immediately relieve your pain because your dentist will use anesthetics to numb your tooth and keep you comfortable during your procedure.

A minimal amount of pain or tenderness is normal when recovering from root canal therapy. You can alert your dentist if your pain doesn’t subside after the first day or two or it seems abnormal.

Avoiding Root Canal Therapy

Believe it or not, many root canals could’ve been avoided with routine visits to your dentist every six months. Your dentist can detect decay in your tooth early on during your examination and with x-rays. This allows you to treat your tooth with a simple dental filling, which is less invasive than root canal therapy.

Give your dentist in Syracuse a call today if it’s time for your next cleaning and examination, or if you are experiencing dental pain or sensitivity.

About the Author

Creative Dental Concepts combines the talents of Dr. Gregory A. Craybas and Dr. Donald A. Crumb. We provide comprehensive dentistry with concierge style service that truly personalizes your dental care.

If you would like to contact Creative Dental Concepts, we can be reached by calling 315-475-6641 or through our website.