Root Canal Therapy
The nerves inside a tooth can become infected, inflamed, or irritated due to trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks and chips in the tooth, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, or large fillings. If left untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding bone structures and cause an abscess. An abscess is a painful infection that can damage the bone around the tooth and cause swelling. If the infection is severe enough, it can even damage your health.
At Smile Center Inc., our dentist specializes in root canal therapy. A root canal is a procedure performed when the diseased nerve tissue needs to be removed from inside the tooth to save it from extraction and prevent the infection from spreading further and affecting your overall oral health.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
- Severe pain when chewing or applying pressure to a tooth
- Swelling around the affected tooth
- Discoloration of the tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Tenderness or discomfort in the gums near the affected tooth
The Root Canal Procedure
During a root canal procedure, our dentist in Mobile, AL, will remove the infected pulp from the tooth and replace it with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. Gutta-percha is a rubber-like substance that helps seal the tooth and prevent infections.
Our dentist will thoroughly clean the inside of the tooth to remove any remaining bacteria and debris. Once the root canal procedure is complete, they will place a crown or other restoration on the tooth to protect it from further damage.
The Benefits of Root Canal Therapy
Relieves Pain
One of the main reasons people seek treatment for a root canal in Mobile, AL, is because they are experiencing severe tooth pain. An infection in the pulp chamber often causes pain. Several factors, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma to the tooth, can cause this infection. If you are experiencing tooth pain, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is essential. Our dentist can determine if you need a root canal and recommend the best action.
Prevents Further Damage
Another reason to get a root canal is that it can prevent further damage to your teeth. If the infection is not treated, it can spread to other teeth and even the bone that supports them. This can lead to tooth loss and other serious oral health problems.
Saves Your Natural Tooth
A root canal can save your natural tooth from being extracted. Many people think that if they have an infected tooth, the only option is to have the tooth pulled. However, this is only sometimes necessary. In many cases, a root canal can successfully treat the infection and save the tooth.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your teeth, visit Smile Center Inc. at 3805 Airport Blvd., Mobile, AL 36608, or call (251) 494-6187. Our dentist will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure and help you decide if it is the right option for you.