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Signs You Need A Root Canal
Posted on March 15th, 2023
Why Get Root Canal Treatment?
Root canal therapy in Chicago, IL is used to restore strength and functionality to severely damaged teeth. Typically, patients who suffer from some form of tooth decay require a simple cavity filling, but sometimes a cavity expands and grows in size until the decay reaches the pulp of the tooth.
Teeth are composed of multiple layers. The outer layers protect the pulp from injury and bacteria, but when a tooth is significantly damaged it can leave the tooth vulnerable to infection.
When bacteria travels from a compromised tooth’s surface to the pulp it can threaten the root of the tooth, causing pain, inflammation, jaw bone deterioration, an abscess, and eventual tooth loss.
When Do You Need A Root Canal VS A Filling?
When damage does reach the pulp and infection occurs, a filling isn’t enough to repair the tooth. The pulp and root need to be removed and the canal cleaned, reshaped, then filled. In most cases, a dental crown is applied to the top of the tooth after the procedure to strengthen and protect it, especially back molars.
Since the pulp contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves, it is typically painful when exposed to bacteria. However, pain is not the only sign you may need a root canal.
How Do You Know When You Need A Root Canal?
There are many symptoms that can occur if you have a damaged tooth. If you’re wondering how to know when you need a root canal, continue reading for some helpful information on what to watch for that will indicate it’s time to schedule a dentist appointment.
Warning signs that you need a root canal may include:
- Tooth pain
- Extreme tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Visible damage to the tooth (i.e. a chip or crack)
- Gum lesions/pimples on the gum tissue
- Tooth discoloration
- A cavity has developed
- Swelling or tenderness in the area around the tooth
- A dental abscess
- Significant pain when pressure is applied to the tooth
- Facial swelling
- Swelling in the neck area
If you are concerned about your dental health and believe you may need a root canal, contact Windy City Family Dental, your premier restorative dentist in Chicago, IL.
Are Root Canals Painful?
Contrary to what many people believe, a root canal is not painful. However, the damage that occurs to a tooth that makes root canal treatment necessary is often uncomfortable and can be extremely painful in some cases.
The root canal procedure involves removing the infected material and repairing the damage, which resolves the pain and restores functionality to the tooth.
How Long is The Procedure?
If you’re asking, “how long does a root canal take?” the answer will vary from case to case. Some patients have severe infections that require a more thorough cleaning of the root canal(s), and some teeth have more canals than others. Usually a root canal treatment is completed within two dental visits.
At Windy City Family Dental, one of our restorative dental care professionals will provide a thorough examination and evaluation of your smile before designing a treatment plan.
How Long Do Root Canals Last?
Root canals are meant to last a lifetime when done correctly. The only portion of a root canal procedure that may one day require replacement is the dental crown, which is the cap that sits on your tooth’s surface and covers the filling. Fortunately, a crown replacement is a simple dental procedure that can typically be completed in one appointment.
Contact Us at Windy City Family Dental in Chicago
If you are experiencing symptoms that could point to dental injury or tooth decay, such as pain in your tooth or swollen gums, it’s important that you visit a dentist as soon as possible.
Contact us to schedule an appointment at Windy City Family Dental, where we put your smile first!
