Root Canal Treatment
Deep at the center of each tooth is an area called the pulp chamber; dental pulp is made up of material that keeps the tooth alive. If bacteria find their way into the pulp chamber, you develop an infection that can only be treated with a root canal or extraction.
At Harbor Point Family Dentistry, we diagnose the problem and provide you with the information needed to make a treatment decision. Although we do not perform root canals at our office, we have a fantastic referral network of endodontists (root canal specialists) in the area that we can connect you with that can do your root canal treatment.
Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection
If you have a tooth infection, it’s important for your oral and general health to seek treatment as soon as possible. Here are some common symptoms of a root canal infection that you should be aware of:
- Severe tooth pain that worsens over time
- Extreme tooth sensitivity to touch and hot and cold
- Jaw pain, swelling, or tenderness
- A foul odor or taste in the mouth
- A bump on the gum near the painful tooth
By performing a root canal, an endodontist (root canal specialist) removes the infection that’s causing your pain and saves the tooth. Because you can’t live with an infected tooth, the only other option for pain relief is extraction—which is not our first choice.
5 Steps Involved with Root Canal Treatment
Dr. McMahan understands and empathizes with your concerns about root canal treatment. However, there’s really nothing to fear!
First, an endodontist (root canal specialist) will numb your tooth to ensure you don’t feel any pain or discomfort. Some of our endodontist referrals may offer calming nitrous oxide (laughing gas) that will help you remain relaxed and comfortable throughout your procedure.
Then your root canal is completed in the following five steps:
- Access the pulp material inside your tooth
- Thoroughly clean out pulp to remove the infection
- Disinfect the root canals
- Fill the hollowed-out pulp chamber
- Seal the tooth and place a temporary filling
When it is finished, your toothache will be gone—although you will likely experience some soreness for a day or two afterward. You may be prescribed antibiotics, so be sure to take them as instructed to ensure the infection’s completely gone. You can also take OTC pain medications like ibuprofen or Advil to relieve any discomfort.
Do You Think You Need a Root Canal?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, please call Harbor Point Family Dentistry so our dentist can take a look at the tooth as soon as possible. Dr. McMahan will perform an exam and take x-rays to see what's going on and provide the appropriate diagnosis and recommendations.
Are you worried because you've heard the stories about root canals? Rest assured, all the hype is not based on reality, and a root canal performed by an experienced endodontist is not something to fear.
In addition to serving friends and neighbors in Mooresville, we are also pleased to welcome patients from Lake Norman, Mooresville, Cornelius, Davidson, and surrounding communities.
