An endodontic treatment can help treat issues with the interior of a tooth, such as a dental infection. A root canal is a comfortable and conservative treatment to ease discomfort and safeguard the tooth. In today’s blog, your Newhall, CA, dentist talks about what to expect from this treatment option, and how to prevent infections.
The Causes and Dangers of Infected Teeth
How does a tooth become infected in the first place? A number of factors could cause this to happen. The infection means that bacteria has met the inner pulp, the nerve center of each and every tooth. This could occur due to an untreated cavity that grew in size and severity with time, or a tooth that was cracked or chipped and not repaired in a timely manner. Without treatment, the infection will grow more severe and the tooth could eventually require extraction to prevent infection from reaching other parts of the smile. Warning signs could include toothaches, tooth sensitivity, swelling near the tooth, pain when you eat or bite down, headaches, or a discharge from the tooth.
Treatment with Endodontics
We start treatment by taking steps to ensure you’re comfortable, administering a local numbing agent or for those with anxiety, dental sedation. Once you’re comfortable and relaxed, our team will open the tooth to remove the infected tissues for within. After we do, we add a restorative filling material to the interior of the tooth. We then cure the material and cap the tooth with a dental crown. This can offer a lifelike appearance and protect the tooth from further trouble.
Taking Steps to Prevent Infection
Actions can be taken to help reduce the risk of tooth decay or an infected tooth. First, be sure you brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, using a toothpaste that contains fluoride. You also need to floss every evening as well! Try to cut back on foods and drinks high in sugar and starch. You should also wear mouthguards when playing full contact sports or martial arts. Finally, be sure to see our team for a checkup and cleaning visit every six months so we can watch for the earliest signs of trouble and prevent complications.
If you have any questions about how we treat an infected tooth, or about the root canal procedure, then contact our team today to learn more. We want everyone in your family to enjoy good oral health.
Talk To Your Newhall, CA Dentist About Dental Restoration
Our team can treat an infected tooth with a comfortable restorative treatment. If you would like to find out more about how we treat serious issues with one or more teeth, then contact your Newhall, CA, dentist, Dr. Tajik, by calling (661) 259-7760.