7th June 2019
How A Dentist Performs Root Canal Treatment
When does a root canal treatment become necessary, and how is it performed? If you’ve never had one before, you probably don’t know the answers to these questions. It is important you know what to look out for, though, as that may imply you should receive root canal therapy. As your faithful dentist in Stourbridge, we’re going to explain what a root canal treatment is and why this dental treatment is not a necessity for your health.
When does a root canal treatment become necessary?
A root canal becomes necessary when you have decay or a cavity that has been left untreated. Cavities are caused by bacteria that break down your protective enamel and eventually tooth surfaces until they reach the delicate dental pulp at the centre of your tooth. Each tooth’s dental pulp is primarily made of blood vessels and nerve tissue, which the bacteria quickly inflames and irritates. This makes the root canal infection particularly uncomfortable, as your nerves are reacting against the bacterial infection.
What happens during a root canal treatment?
Your dentist will first assess the tooth before they begin to remove any damaged and inflamed pulp. They do this with dental files in varying diameters. Your dentist will work the files down the length of the cavity to scrape away and remove the infected tissue in the root canals. This is essential because if the infection is left to worsen you could risk losing the tooth. Your dentist will then ensure that the cavity is cleaned before it is sealed off from further risks of infection.
Symptoms of infection
You may need a root canal if you’re experiencing a severe toothache or pain when chewing or biting, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures in the mouth, tooth discolouration, and swollen and tender gums. These are all the signs that you have an infection. If you develop an abscess, which can look like a pimple or spot, then this is a sign that your infection has worsened, and you should seek the attention of a dentist as soon as you can.
Dentist in Stourbridge
Root canal treatment helps your dentist to save your tooth before it fails and needs to be extracted. Using advanced care and even restorative dentistry, the professionals at Lion Dental Centre will help you to preserve your dental health. If you’re noticing changes in your mouth or are concerned that you may be experiencing an infection, get in touch with our dentist in Stourbridge today at 01384 376336 to book your initial consultation.