When an infection reaches deep inside a tooth, root canal therapy can relieve your discomfort and restore your smile. This treatment clears harmful bacteria, seals the tooth, and helps preserve its natural structure. Many patients find this procedure more comfortable than they expected. At Dentistry of Hockessin in Hockessin, DE, schedule your visit today and protect your oral health for years to come.
What Is A Root Canal?
Root canal therapy treats infection or inflammation inside a tooth without needing to remove it. Your provider carefully removes the infected pulp, disinfects the area, and seals it to prevent further damage. This approach helps you keep your natural smile intact.
- Preserves your natural tooth: Keeps your original tooth intact to maintain your bite and jawbone health.
- Eliminates harmful bacteria: Cleans infection from the center of the tooth to stop it from spreading.
- Restores comfort: Reduces lingering sensitivity and discomfort caused by nerve irritation.
- Supports long-term health: Prevents shifting teeth and bone loss associated with extraction.
The Root Canal Process
The procedure begins by numbing the area to ensure you’re comfortable. Your provider removes the infected tissue, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent future infection. A custom crown is often placed to strengthen and protect the tooth afterward.
- Ensures your comfort: Local anesthesia provides a relaxed and pain-free treatment experience.
- Thoroughly cleans infection: Removes bacteria and damaged pulp from hard-to-reach canals.
- Seals the tooth: Uses a biocompatible filling to keep bacteria out and promote healing.
- Restores function with a crown: Strengthens the tooth and matches the appearance of your natural teeth.
Signs Of A Tooth Infection
Knowing the signs of an infection can help you get treated early. Sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or changes in tooth color often indicate a problem inside the tooth. Acting early makes treatment easier and more effective.
- Temperature sensitivity: Lingering discomfort or sharp sensitivity from hot or cold foods and beverages.
- Swollen gums or jaw: Indicates that the infection may be spreading to nearby tissues.
- Tooth discoloration: Darkening or graying signals nerve or pulp damage inside the tooth.
- Unpleasant taste or odor: Persistent bad taste often comes from bacterial buildup near the infection.
The Importance Of Prompt Treatment
Delaying treatment allows infection to spread and may lead to tooth loss. Early care preserves your teeth and helps avoid more complicated procedures later on. Quick action leads to a smoother recovery and better overall health.
- Prevents infection spread: Stops bacteria from affecting nearby teeth, gums, and bone.
- Avoids extraction: Keeps your natural tooth intact to maintain your bite and facial structure.
- Reduces future dental costs: Minimizes the need for more invasive and costly dental work.
- Supports overall health: Prevents bacteria from entering the bloodstream and causing systemic issues.
Protect Your Smile & Relieve Discomfort Today
If you notice symptoms like swelling, sensitivity, or discoloration, it’s important to act quickly. At Dentistry of Hockessin, Dr. Brink offers expert root canal therapy with gentle care and lasting results. He’s a trusted provider in Hockessin, DE, dedicated to helping you keep your smile healthy and comfortable. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to relief.