You may be nervous if you’ve never had a modern root canal, especially considering all the myths surrounding this straightforward treatment.
Myths include:
- Root canals are painful
- Root canals cause tooth loss
- Root canals are not safe
Reality: Root canals in Clayton, NC, are painless, do not cause tooth loss, and are safe.
Your dentist numbs the area, extracts the infection, and temporarily seals the tooth. We typically crown the tooth at a later appointment to restore stability. It really is that simple.
Signs You Need Root Canal Therapy
A tooth root infection is a dental emergency because it risks your tooth and can cause significant pain without intervention. Even if you’re only experiencing mild discomfort, this can increase throughout the day until you are in agony.
Signs you need a root canal treatment include:
- Increasing toothache or discomfort
- Jaw or face swelling near the painful tooth
- Tooth darkening or discoloration
- Blister or bump on the gum
You don’t have to have all these symptoms to have a tooth infection. For example, if the tooth nerve is damaged, you may not feel much pain. So, we recommend talking to our dental team if you’re unsure.
Root Canal Infections: Causes and Prevention
Root canals result from bacteria penetrating the tooth, reaching the middle chamber, and causing infection.
Common culprits include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Oral injury
- Lack of dental care
It’s important to brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for checkups and teeth cleanings every six months.
Thorough checkups help us diagnose root infections in their earliest stages, and professional dental cleanings rid your teeth and gums of the ingredients that cause tooth decay, infections, and gum disease.
Gentle Root Canal Treatment with Your Clayton Dentist
Don’t believe the myths! If you have a toothache or other symptoms, contact a dental team member today to book an emergency dental appointment in Clayton, NC.