Have you ever had a toothache so bad it feels like it’s taking over your life? Well, you aren’t alone—millions of people experience this pain each year because of inner tooth infections. Often, a root canal is the fastest and most effective way to achieve relief. Although commonly seen as a daunting dental procedure, root canals are actually very common treatments that don’t live up to their scary reputation. According to the American College of Endodontists, these treatments are performed about 15 million times every year!
If you are experiencing tooth pain, you may need a root canal. At Brockley Dental Center, our experienced staff can eliminate the infection, alleviate your discomfort, and save your tooth!
Understanding the Reality of Root Canals
A root canal is a dental procedure that addresses bacterial infection deep within the tooth’s canals. Inside these canals, a soft pulp made of blood cells, nerves, and connective tissues resides. In the past, root canals had a painful reputation because of the nerve involvement and the lack of modern anesthetics and tools. That’s why you might hear people say, “I’d rather have a root canal.” But thanks to today’s dental advancements, that stereotype is now outdated.
A successful root canal reduces pain, saves the original tooth, and prevents the infection from spreading. If you need a root canal, we will carefully remove the infected pulp from within the tooth and thoroughly clean and disinfect its inner surfaces. Then, we will fill the cavity, seal it, and often cap the tooth with a crown.
Signs You Need a Root Canal
Tooth infections that require a root canal usually come with unmistakable signs. If you suffer from one or more of the following symptoms, this procedure may be the right treatment for you:
- Persistent tooth pain
- Swollen gums
- Sensitivity to hot and cold food or drink
- Tooth discoloration
- Loose teeth
Usually, tooth infections requiring root canals develop when the tooth is cracked or cavities are left untreated for long periods. These situations allow bacteria to infiltrate and take hold in the pulp tissue.
Root Canal Benefits
Root canal therapy offers many benefits, both short and long-term. This procedure is known to:
- Provide quick relief: Root canals require minimal time in the dentist’s chair and can often be completed in a single visit, offering immediate relief from tooth pain.
- Save the tooth: A successful root canal prevents tooth extraction, preserving your natural alignment. Your teeth rely on each other to maintain proper positioning, so losing one alters your bite and introduces a whole host of functional challenges.
- Stop the spread of infection: If left untreated, an infected tooth can spread bacteria to neighboring teeth and gums. A root canal removes the infected pulp, preventing the bacteria from advancing and wreaking havoc.
Addressing a root canal infection promptly prevents more complicated and costly problems from developing.
What To Expect at Your Visit
If you’re experiencing symptoms of an infected tooth, we may recommend a root canal to relieve your pain and save your tooth. The process begins with a thorough diagnosis. We’ll examine your teeth, take X-rays to assess the extent of the infection, and review your medical history, current medications, and oral hygiene routine. From there, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan to preserve your tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
If you need a root canal, we will walk you through the procedure and discuss the cost of treatment. At Brockley Dental Center, our staff will help you navigate your insurance coverage to ensure you’re maximizing your benefits. To make your care more affordable, we also partner with CareCredit, offering flexible payment options to fit your budget.
Schedule an Appointment To Save Your Natural Teeth
You should never ignore tooth pain, gum swelling, and loose teeth, as they may be signs of an oral infection that requires treatment. Getting a root canal offers a quick solution with minimal recovery time, allowing you to regain your quality of life as soon as possible.
At Brockley Dental Center, our team provides compassionate, high-quality treatment using the latest dental technology and techniques. With over 49 years serving the Butler, PA, area, we truly care about our patients and community.
If you’re suffering from excessive tooth pain, don’t wait another minute to start working on a solution. Contact us to schedule an appointment today, and let us save your tooth!
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